This thesis investigates the relationship between intangible culture and the preservation of public art on U.S. campuses of higher education. It analyzes how and why the preservation practices of Columbia Universitys Alma Mater and Harvard Universitys John Harvard respond to intangible cultural heritage. Research methods used include archival research, social media, and interviews. This thesis exposes key issues and challenges that arise when preservationists consider both intangible and tangible heritage values together in a preservation context. The results of this study suggest that, based on the different values associated with intangible culture, different preservation approaches, including the preservation of a sense of place and continued accessibility are necessary. This study also advocates Randall Masons planning process methodology that preservationists could use to begin developing a comprehensive understanding of intangible cultural heritage. This thesis concludes that these challenges highlight areas for further development in historic preservation theory and practice.