An Important Message from Heritage Calgary's CEO and Board of Directors
April 22, 2025
Message from Josh Traptow, Chief Executive Officer, Heritage Calgary
After nearly ten incredible years with Heritage Calgary, I’m writing to share that I’ll be moving on to a new chapter as I join the Alberta Real Estate Foundation, effective May 20.
This decision comes with immense pride, reflection, and gratitude. Leading Heritage Calgary has been one of the most rewarding and meaningful experiences of my career. What began as a passion for civic engagement and local history quickly became a mission: to ensure Calgary’s heritage is not only preserved, but embraced, celebrated, and made relevant for all communities.
During my time at Heritage Calgary, I’ve had the privilege of working with an extraordinary staff, passionate board members, and dedicated funders. Together, we’ve accomplished so much:
We rebranded the organization and transformed the way Calgarians engage with our city's heritage, making it more inclusive, accessible, and community-focused.
We revitalized the Heritage Calgary Awards, turning them into a signature event that honours the people and projects that make our city’s heritage vibrant.
We strengthened our relationship with the City of Calgary, solidifying our role as a valued and trusted civic partner.
We significantly expanded and modernized the Inventory of Evaluated Historic Resources, helping to highlight the diversity and richness of Calgary’s built and cultural heritage.
We launched new educational and digital storytelling initiatives to share the many histories that make up our city.
We embedded equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation more deeply into the organization’s operations and perspective — recognizing that heritage is not just about what’s old, but what’s meaningful to communities today.
All of this was possible because of the amazing people I’ve had the privilege to work alongside — staff, board members, partners, funders, donors, and community champions. I am deeply grateful for your trust, collaboration, and commitment to our shared mission.
As I transition into the role of Executive Director of the Alberta Real Estate Foundation, I look forward to continuing to serve Albertans by supporting initiatives that strengthen our communities, our environment, and our built heritage. The values I carry with me — collaboration, public good, and storytelling — remain central to this next chapter.
Thank you, Calgary, for allowing me to help tell your stories and keep space for the past, present, and future of this place we call home. Heritage Calgary will always hold a special place in my heart.
With gratitude,
Josh Traptow
Chief Executive Officer
Heritage Calgary
Message from Lauren Herschel, Chair, Board of Directors, Heritage Calgary
It is with mixed emotions that I, on behalf of the Board of Directors of Heritage Calgary, announce the resignation of CEO Josh Traptow, effective May 16. We are very thankful for the incredible leadership Josh has brought to Heritage Calgary during his tenure of almost 10 years and have no doubt he will bring that same leadership to his new role as Executive Director of the Alberta Real Estate Foundation.
I think that it is fair to say that wherever conversations are happening about heritage places, spaces and resources in Calgary, you’ll find Josh. He has become the go-to, trusted voice of heritage knowledge for the media, politicians, city administrators, property owners and everyday Calgarians wanting to learn more and get perspective on the importance of Calgary’s heritage. And that’s not surprising. Josh’s unwavering commitment to preserving and sharing the stories that shape our city— redefining what heritage means in a modern, diverse, and evolving Calgary – has not only grown the impact, relevance and reach of Heritage Calgary, but also has inspired a renewed interest and understanding of the value heritage bring to our communities.
During his time at Heritage Calgary, Josh has led with vision, integrity, and tenacity. His accomplishments are numerous and lasting. From rebranding the organization to better reflect its mission, to revitalizing the Heritage Calgary Awards, as well as expanding the Inventory of Evaluated Historic Resources (and so much more!), Josh’s legacy is one of innovation and inclusion. He forged a strong and trusted partnership with the City of Calgary, championed equity and reconciliation in heritage work, and guided the organization through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with resilience and purpose.
More than anything, Josh’s leadership and advocacy has fostered an appreciation, love and commitment to preserving the stories, places and people that have contributed to our shared heritage in Calgary. While we are sad to see him go, we are incredibly proud of all he has accomplished and excited to see what he will bring to his new role. We know that wherever he goes, Josh will continue to make a difference.
Thank you, Josh, for your leadership, your heart, and your belief in the power of place and story. Because of your wisdom and leadership, Heritage Calgary and its amazing team are in a strong position continue the important work you started.
Our Board of Directors has established a committee to support recruitment efforts and the transition to new leadership. As we move forward, we will keep you updated on this process, including the appointment of a new CEO/Executive Director.
With appreciation,
Lauren Herschel
Chair, Board of Directors
Heritage Calgary