Advocacy in Action with Kendall: Summer Intern Takeover 2026

As a rising junior honors student at the College of Charleston, majoring in History and International Studies and minoring in Political Science, I had an amazing internship experience working with the Advocacy and Preservation team at Historic Charleston Foundation!

One aspect of the internship that I have particularly enjoyed is the Foundation’s involvement in the Board of Architectural Review (BAR). The entire process, from reviewing agendas to site visits to attending the actual board meetings, has been so insightful and interesting. I have learned so much by listening to the staff discuss projects, designs, and their recommendations. Meeting with the architects of so many of these projects has also been an insightful opportunity to see firsthand how thoughtfully our buildings in Charleston are designed. It has been such a privilege to learn from so many different individuals about the importance of maintaining Charleston’s historic character.

As a College of Charleston student, I am deeply passionate about the 106 Coming Street project. Throughout the summer, and through working with this project, I have gained valuable experience in research, community engagement, and architectural meetings. Its complexity and sensitivity have allowed me to think very critically and deeply about Charleston and its history, communities, and the role of architecture in shaping these. In general, it has been a particularly meaningful opportunity to see how advocacy makes a real impact on the community, and, specifically, the deferral of the conceptual plans for the building highlighted this.

It has also been great to get to work alongside the interns in preservation, Molly and Bates, on so many projects, especially the Aiken-Rhett House Crack Study. Measuring every crack in the walls and ceiling throughout the house was tedious, but it was also incredibly rewarding. The opportunity to spend time in every single room of the house was a unique privilege, and it gave me an even greater appreciation for the building and its history.

It has been such a rewarding and productive internship experience at Historic Charleston Foundation. The staff’s commitment to preserving Charleston’s character and advocating for its prosperity is inspiring, and their passion for the city is truly contagious. It is easy to see the lasting impact of their work throughout Charleston, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to contribute to that mission this summer!

— Kendall Snyder, rising junior at the College of Charleston Honors College, pursuing a degree in History and International Studies, and a minor Political Science

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