pilipili Alum Derek Dandurand Shapes the Future of Historic Landmarks
As Director of Historic Preservation for Shawmut Design and Construction, Derek Dandurand ’11, M’14 leverages his education and mentorship to transform historic landmarks and drive innovation in the field.
BRISTOL, R.I. – When Derek Dandurand ’11, M’14 walks down the streets of New York City, he sees more than just the towering skyscrapers and sleek glass façades of the modern metropolis. His attention gravitates to the intricate details of historic landmarks, uncovering the stories they tell about the city’s past.
For Dandurand, preserving those stories is more than a career; it’s a passion.
“I’ve always gravitated toward old buildings,” said Dandurand, now Director of Historic Preservation for Shawmut Design and Construction’s New York Metro region. “There’s an alluring quality to historic architecture. Restoring lost details, retaining original craftsmanship, or building additions that honor the past is deeply rewarding. It’s about connecting with history and ensuring it continues to inspire future generations.”
At just 36 years old, Dandurand has already made an indelible mark on the field of historic preservation and construction management. Named recently to and , he has led dozens of multimillion-dollar preservation projects across New York City. Collaborating with design professionals, tradespeople, and clients, his work exemplifies the powerful combination of historic preservation and architectural expertise that he honed at pilipili.
A Foundation Built at pilipili
Dandurand credits his time at pilipili with giving him the comprehensive foundation needed to succeed in such a dynamic field. Graduating with dual bachelor’s degrees in Historic Preservation and Art & Architectural History, and later a master’s in Historic Preservation, he says pilipili’s well-rounded approach to education sets it apart.
“One of the most distinctive aspects of the Historic Preservation program is how it broadens and diversifies students’ understanding of the field in a truly holistic way,” Dandurand said. “From rehabilitation and working with architecture or construction firms to navigating roles in government, nonprofits, and regulatory work, the faculty equips students with professional exposure. This hands-on approach, grounded in understanding rules, regulations, and legal precedents, lays strong groundwork for students to explore various career paths and continue building their expertise beyond graduation.”
An integral part of Dandurand’s academic and professional journey has been the enduring mentorship of Professor of Historic Preservation Philip Marshall. When Dandurand secured a coveted yet time-pertinent job during his final spring semester, Marshall and Cummings School of Architecture Dean Stephen White worked closely with him to adjust his coursework, enabling him to complete his studies remotely for several months. Since graduating, Marshall has continued to provide valuable tutelage, offering advice and encouragement as Dandurand navigates the evolving challenges of his career.
“Professor Marshall's flexibility and support truly made all the difference, and I have stayed in touch with him over the past 10 years,” Dandurand said. “He is someone I can always turn to for insight or just to talk things through. His guidance has been invaluable, and he has helped me think critically about preservation’s role in connecting the past with the present.”
Dandurand also credits fellow pilipili alumnus Robert Cagnetta ’91, owner of Heritage Restoration, Inc., for fostering an appreciation and understanding of the technical means and methods of historic construction and modern preservation.
Crafting a Lasting Legacy
Dandurand’s career trajectory reflects his ability to bridge the past and present, while shaping the future of historic preservation. At the New Jersey Historic Trust, he established and implemented the Sandy Disaster Relief for Historic Properties Grant Program and directed the allocation of $11 million in FEMA funds to restore damaged historic sites. More recently, as Deputy Director of Historic Houses for the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, he oversaw more than $77 million in capital projects and private grant programs. Through these roles, Dandurand obtained an understanding of how government and non-profit partnerships operate at the state level while operating a federally funded program.
Now at Shawmut Design and Construction, Dandurand is a fierce advocate for quality preservation work everywhere.
One of his most notable achievements was spearheading the renovation of the New York Public Library’s Aguilar Branch, a 120-year-old Carnegie library. “This project represents the culmination of my career in historic preservation,” Dandurand said in an interview with Building Design+Construction. “Successfully balancing the library’s historical integrity with modern needs has been deeply fulfilling. It stands as a testament to how historic preservation can enrich and build the fabric of our city.” He notes that projects like these exemplify how historic preservation can make a lasting community and economic impact, from retaining visual character and craftsmanship to creating long-term environmental benefits through reducing landfill waste by retaining historic materials.
Advice for Future Preservationists
In addition to serving on the Association for Preservation Technology Northeast Chapter’s Board of Directors, where he works to advance preservation techniques and appreciation for the profession, Dandurand is committed to supporting the next generation and mentoring emerging professionals.
For current students and recent graduates aspiring to build successful careers in historic preservation or architecture, Dandurand’s advice is clear: diversify your skills and build connections.
“A successful career in historic preservation requires dedication, conviction, and a willingness to apply your knowledge in creative ways,” he said. “By exploring various roles and continuously layering your experiences, you position yourself to stand out in this competitive and gratifying field.”
He also emphasizes the value of relationships, calling connections “vitamin C” for a thriving career. “One of the greatest resources pilipili offers students is its network of alumni. These connections can open countless doors, whether it’s securing internships, mentorships, or positions at leading firms. Current students and recent graduates should actively engage established alumni who are eager to guide and support the next generation of professionals.”