Michael Haskins, an experienced non-profit leader 
to head Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council (SPAR)

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – (March 31, 2023) — Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council (SPAR) has hired Michael Haskins as the organization’s new executive director, effective April 3rd. Haskins comes to SPAR with more than 10 years of experience as an education and non-profit leader.

"Michael not only brings valuable leadership experience to the organization, but also a fresh perspective," said Kelly Lezama, President of SPAR board of directors. "Springfield has grown tremendously over the last decade, with even greater potential in the years to come. Michael will help us navigate the journey in a thoughtful and inclusive way, both as an organization and as a community."

Haskins will lead SPAR’s activities and efforts making Historic Springfield a preferred place in which to live and do business. He will lead programs that drive the preservation, revitalization and balanced growth of the community.

Haskins comes to SPAR with more than 10 years of experience as an educational and non-profit leader, building teams and making positive impacts in diverse communities.

Most recently, he served as founding Assistant School Leader of Operations at KIPP Bold City High School, where he oversaw strategic activities and protocol development of the school. Haskins previously served as Program Director at the Tulsa Debate League, where he worked with dozens of schools to successfully coach critical thinking and debate skills, as well as oversee STEM, arts, and cultural partnerships. In just three years, he grew the program by almost 400%. A skilled public speaker, Haskins appeared at TEDxUTulsa presenting on the Power of Debate.

"I'm looking forward to serving the Springfield community and playing a key role in the urban core's revitalization", Haskins said. "From the Emerald Trail, to infill and adaptive reuse on Main Street, to our growing small business community, to our public events like Jacksonville PorchFest, Explore the Core, and Tour of Homes, there is a lot to be excited about in Springfield. I can't wait to get started."

SPAR's first special event under Haskins's leadership will be the 44th Annual Historic Springfield Tour of Homes on May 13 and 14, 2023, featuring six unique venues within walking or biking distance of each other.

About Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) Council

Since 1974, Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) has facilitated positive

change in the Springfield historic district through a variety of roles and initiatives. SPAR’s goals for Historic Springfield include preservation of Jacksonville’s oldest existing neighborhood, architecture and historic streetscapes, development and maintenance of a comfortable community environment, revitalization of our commercial corridor, advocacy and representation on issues affecting our community and most importantly, the facilitation of a connected, close-knit base of neighbors who work together to celebrate living in one of Jacksonville’s fastest growing, up-and-coming communities.

For more information about SPAR, explore Sparcouncil.org, follow our social media (@sparjax), or contact us directly at 904.353.7727 / [email protected] 

Photo credit: Renee Parenteau Photography