In the world of real estate and urban development, Pres Kabacoff is one of the nation’s most charismatic, visionary leaders. Together with the late Edward B. Boettner (1933-2000), he founded Historic Restoration, Inc., now known as HRI Properties. He helped pioneer the concept of adaptive reuse, particularly in urban areas, allowing HRI to make a name for itself by rebuilding neighborhoods and shaping entire communities. As executive chairman of the board of directors, he ensures HRI’s future is as groundbreaking as the company’s past. Pres has been instrumental in transforming cities nationwide, starting with HRI’s hometown of New Orleans. In doing so, he’s turned underutilized areas into vibrant urban centers. Prior to founding HRI, he practiced real estate law and served as assistant to the managing partner of International Rivercenter, experience that proved valuable as HRI expanded in size and scope. He earned a B.S. from the University of Denver and holds a law degree from Louisiana State University. As someone who cares deeply about improving the lives of others, his list of civic affiliations and honors is unparalleled. Highlights include chairing the New Orleans Housing Task Force Committee as well as the New Orleans Chapter of the Urban Land Institute, and serving as an advisory board member of the Brookings Institution’s Center on Urban and Metropolitan Policy. Pres is also a former trustee of Dillard University and is currently on the Trustee Committee for Economic Development CDE as well as a standing member of LOCUS. He founded the New Orleans Council for Young Children and co-chaired the mayor’s Special Task Force on Children, Youth and Families. For his love and dedication to the city of New Orleans, he was one of only five recipients presented with a Peacemakers’ award.
