Discovering: Woodmere with the Chestnut Hill Conservancy
Photos courtesy of Woodmere. Michael Moran Photography.
Discovering: Woodmere
A Collaborative Program on Historic Preservation, Adaptive Reuse, and Community Vision
Thursday, June 11, 2026
In-Person | 5:00–7:00 PM
Registration: $25 for conservancy members | $35 for non-members
Advance registration is required.
This special collaborative program, presented in partnership with Woodmere, offers an in-depth look at the transformation of St. Michael’s Hall into the museum’s Frances M. Maguire Hall—an ambitious and nationally significant example of adaptive reuse, historic preservation, and community-centered design.
What does it take to reimagine a historic structure—not simply to preserve it, but to give it new life with purpose and integrity in service of the community it supports?
More than a renovation, Maguire Hall reflects a broader commitment to stewardship, meaningful community engagement, and a careful balance between continuity and change. Originally constructed as a summer cottage in 1857, the building evolved over time. Two Italianate wings, designed by the architecture firm Cope & Stewardson, were added in 1899. Later, it became Fontbonne Academy for Girls, a residence for Chestnut Hill College students, and, around 1980, a convent for the Sisters of Saint Joseph, who occupied the property for nearly a century before Woodmere acquired it in 2021.
Through a focused conversation with William R. Valerio, Ph.D., the Patricia Van Burgh Allison Director and CEO of Woodmere.; Jeff Krieger, AIA, LEED AP, President, Krieger Jacob Architects; and David Gest, Esq., the Conservancy’s Executive Director (who previously served as zoning attorney for the project), participants will gain insight into how this transformation took shape—from early visioning and neighborhood dialogue to the complex realities of implementation. The discussion will address key aspects of the project, including zoning and regulatory pathways, site and environmental constraints, accessibility and life-safety requirements, and the complex design decisions required to adapt a historic convent into a contemporary cultural space without compromising its historic character.
Grounded in real experience, the program will move beyond a single success story to highlight the relationships, trade-offs, and coordination required across disciplines to bring a project of this scale to fruition. It will also point to broader tools and strategies—ranging from community engagement to code compliance and building program—that can inform similar efforts across Philadelphia and beyond.
A moderated Q&A will follow. Following the Q&A, there will be time to continue the conversation with light refreshments until 7:00 PM.
Registration also includes complimentary admission to Woodmere for a self-guided visit either earlier in the day, before the program (prior to 5:00 PM on June 11), or the following day (June 12) during regular museum hours, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
About the presenters:
About William R. Valerio:
William R. Valerio, Ph.D., is the Patricia Van Burgh Allison Director and CEO of Woodmere.
Since 2010, he has led a transformative period of growth at Woodmere, strengthening its role as a vital cultural institution through expanded community engagement, enhanced collections, and increased financial stability. Under his leadership, the museum has deepened its focus on the art and artists of Philadelphia through major exhibitions and scholarly initiatives, while also broadening access through digital platforms and public programming.
He played a central role in the acquisition and renovation of Frances M. Maguire Hall, a major expansion that reflects Woodmere’s long-term vision for preservation, adaptive reuse, and cultural stewardship. His work has helped position Woodmere as a regional leader in connecting art, history, and community.
Previously, Dr. Valerio served on the executive team at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, working on major strategic initiatives and funding efforts, and earlier as a curator at the Queens Museum of Art. He holds a Ph.D. in art history from Yale University, an MBA from the Wharton School, an M.A. from the University of Pennsylvania, and a B.A. from Williams College.
About Jeff Krieger:
Jeff Krieger, AIA, LEED AP, is President of Krieger Jacob Architects, with more than three decades of experience in architectural design, project management, and construction administration.
Over the course of his career, he has designed, detailed, and managed a wide range of commercial, residential, and institutional projects throughout the United States and abroad. Prior to founding his firm in 1992, he worked with several prominent architectural firms, including Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates in Philadelphia.
Krieger has taught architectural design at Drexel University for over 30 years and has been actively involved in nonprofit and community-based organizations, including service on local land use and development review committees. His work reflects a deep commitment to thoughtful design, technical excellence, and the integration of new uses within existing structures.
He holds a B.A. with a major in architecture from Princeton University and attended Carnegie Mellon University’s Master of Architecture program.
About David Gest, Esq.:
David Gest, Esq., serves as Executive Director of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy, where he leads the organization’s work preserving the historical, architectural, and natural resources of the Wissahickon watershed and surrounding communities.
He joined the Conservancy in January 2025, bringing experience in nonprofit leadership, city planning, historic preservation, law, and community engagement. His previous roles include Chief Operating Officer of Mural Arts Philadelphia and Partner focusing on Zoning and Land Use at Ballard Spahr LLP. He began his career with a historic preservation consulting firm in Los Angeles and also practiced land use law in New York City.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Yale University, a Master of City Planning from the University of Pennsylvania School of Design, and a Juris Doctor from Columbia University.
Registration:
Thursday, June 11, 2026
In-Person | 5:00–7:00 PM
Registration: $25 for conservancy members | $35 for non-members
Advance registration is required.