New London — Tom Couser is New London Landmarks' new president of the board of directors, the organization announced Thursday, at its annual meeting.

"I’m honored to be taking over as president when the preservation of New London’s historic architecture has such urgency," Couser said in a statement. A former English professor at Connecticut College and Hofstra University, Couser previously served as New London Landmark's vice president.

Also at the meeting March 15, New London Landmarks presented its Sally Ryan Volunteer of the Year award to Libby Friedman for her work organizing a house tour of Neptune Park; its Clifford Stone award to Tony Silvestri for his vision for City Flats; and its Restoration Award to Quinn & Hary for the rehabilitation of the building at 48 State St. The organization also recognized Tammy Daugherty, the city's former director of the Office of Development and Planning.

"Quinn & Hary’s work on the Philip J. Hendel Building proves that a beautifully executed rehabilitation of a historic building can pay off," Executive Director Laura Natusch said in a statement. "It’s part of an exciting uptick in downtown development. I wish we could have given awards to all of the developers who are saving New London’s history, building by building."