Misia Leonard (June 17, 1935 – May 16, 2008) was a pioneering preservation architect and advocate for the traditional tradest whose life was indelibly shaped by her early experiences in wartime Poland. Born in Warsaw into a well-to-do family with a rich artistic and political heritage, Misia’s childhood was forever altered by the outbreak of World War II. Forced into exile along with her mother—leaving behind everything familiar—she embraced the identity of a “war child.” The harrowing memories of displacement and loss fueled her lifelong commitment to political activism and the preservation of history.

After relocating to the United States, Misia devoted more than two decades to public service in New York City. Over a 22-year period with the City of New York, she rose to become the Director of the Historic Preservation Office for the New York City Department of Design and Construction. In this role, she oversaw the maintenance and conservation of many public buildings, particularly schools, championing the idea that preserving historical structures is not only more cost-effective but also enriches community life. Reflecting on her work, Misia once remarked, "It's work that connects you to tradition, to your past, to your history, or to someone else's history," a sentiment that underscored her belief in the profound value of architectural conservation.

In addition to her professional practice, Misia was a dedicated educator. She developed and taught a preservation course for architects at the City College of New York, crafting a curriculum that emphasized hands-on, field-based learning. Her passion for sharing knowledge extended beyond the classroom—she led workshops on architectural conservation methodology, including initiatives in her native Poland, thereby forging educational partnerships and facilitating the exchange of skills between traditional trades and modern design specialties.

Misia was among the founding members of the Preservation Trades Network. She served on the PTN board and was deeply involved in developing training opportunities for traditional tradespeople and other preservation disciplines, leading to the creation of the scholarship program, which bears her name.

Even in retirement, Misia’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and fostering community connections did not wane. She continued to offer her expertise through volunteer consulting for the Andes Public Library and Chapel Hall in Franklin, where she also served as the official architect and project coordinator on select projects.

Misia Leonard’s legacy is marked by her resilience, her dedication to preserving the tangible links to our past, and her unwavering belief in the importance of tradition. Survived by her partner, George Ballantine; her children, Zoe and Robert; and her grandsons, Xuan and Joaquin, she is remembered not only for her professional contributions but also for the inspiration she provided to everyone who worked with her. Her life's work remains a lasting testament to the beauty of our shared history and the enduring power of preservation.