Introducing our New Director of Preservation & Interpretation

We are pleased to announce that Ivey Gibbs is our new Director of Preservation & Interpretation at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens!

Born and raised in Charleston, Ivey brings a deep-rooted understanding of the Lowcountry’s history and culture to her work. She attended First Baptist School for 14 years before earning a Bachelor of Science in History from the Honors College at Lander University, where she completed two semesters abroad in England and interned at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. She later received her Master’s degree with distinction in Cultural Heritage and Resource Management from Winchester University. Her dissertation explored the legacy of the Lost Cause movement and its enduring impact on systemic racism and racial inequality in the American South.

Since joining Magnolia Plantation and Gardens in 2021, Ivey has worked across nearly every facet of the organization—from guiding tours to developing strategic programming. In her new role as Director of Interpretation and Preservation, she is responsible for shaping all visitor-facing narratives and ensuring that Magnolia’s stories are both historically accurate and deeply resonant with modern audiences.

Ivey says, “I’ve been fortunate to grow alongside Magnolia - starting as a guide and moving through nearly every part of the business. That journey has shaped not only my career, but my perspective on how history lives and breathes in the everyday moments we create for our guests.”

Our Magnolia team is so grateful to see Ivey step into this role! Thank you for all you do!