Design Leader Takes the Helm at Woodlawn and Pope-Leighey House

Alexandria, VA — The National Trust for Historic Preservation has appointed Ruki Neuhold-Ravikumar as the new Executive Director of Woodlawn and Pope‑Leighey House, two nationally significant historic sites located in Alexandria.

An internationally recognized design leader, educator, and cultural executive, Neuhold-Ravikumar brings more than two decades of experience advancing creativity, education, and public engagement across nonprofit and cultural institutions. Her previous roles include President and CEO of the Kansas City Art Institute, Acting Under Secretary for Education at the Smithsonian Institution, and Acting Director of the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. She holds an MFA in Graphic Design from Iowa State University, a BFA in Fine Art from Stella Maris College, and executive education credentials from Harvard University and Yale University.

“Woodlawn and Pope-Leighey House invite us to reflect on the evolving American story, from inherited power to modern aspiration through architecture and lived experience,” said Neuhold-Ravikumar. “I’m excited to work alongside the dedicated team to preserve their legacy while expanding access, dialogue, and meaning for today’s audiences.”

“Ruki brings a global perspective to her work and a deep belief that places, stories, and design shape how people understand identity, belonging, and history,” said Omar A. Eaton-Martinez, Senior Vice President for Historic Sites at the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “She is widely respected for her ability to translate complex histories into meaningful public experiences and to lead institutions through moments of reflection, growth, and renewal. We look forward to her new era of leadership.”

Woodlawn, once part of George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, and the Frank Lloyd Wright–designed Pope-Leighey House share distinct histories but are now operated together by the National Trust. Located at 9000 Richmond Highway, the site is open for public tours from mid-April through late December and continues its mission to engage the community in preserving history and caring for nature at this former site of enslavement.

For additional information please visit: www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org.