The Preservation Action Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2026 Bruce MacDougal Advocacy Scholars Program. The Bruce MacDougal Advocacy Scholars Program recognizes the importance of training the next generation of preservation advocates by inviting selected scholars to participate in National Historic Preservation Advocacy Week. 

Selected participants will participate in policy briefings and trainings, join congressional office visits, and attend key networking events. The scholarship includes complimentary Advocacy Week registration and a travel stipend to attend Advocacy Week in Washington, D.C.

The Advocacy Scholars program provides a unique opportunity for individuals interested in preservation advocacy to access advocacy training and mentoring as well as to join a national network of advocates. Advocacy Week 2026 will be held in-person March 2 – 5, 2026 in Washington, D.C. 

In 2022, the Advocacy Scholars Program was renamed in honor of longtime preservationist and Preservation Action supporter, Bruce MacDougal. Bruce held a deep belief that we, as preservation leaders, should be committed to educating and engaging the next generation of preservationists as he himself had mentored countless preservationists throughout his career.

As an Advocacy Scholar you will:

- Increase your knowledge of federal historic preservation policies and how they impact diverse communities, large and small, across the country
- Participate in briefings and policy discussions that will help shape federal support for historic preservation programs
- Accompany a state delegation of Preservation Action representatives during Congressional office visits
- Meet one-on-one with a Preservation Action mentor to discuss your goals and maximize your experience at Advocacy Week
- Attend the Advocacy Scholars Networking Reception on March 2nd;
- Join members of Preservation Action and NCSHPO at the Champions of Historic Preservation Congressional Reception on the evening of March 4th on Capital Hill

The deadline for applications is January 5th, 2026!

Apply: https://preservationaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Advocacy-Scholar-Application-2025.pdf