Dean's Advisory Council
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Caitlin Admire | Associate | Freese and Nichols | Austin, TX Caitlin Admire earned her master’s degree in Landscape Architecture from Kansas State University in 2011 and brings over a decade of experience in the public and private sectors. Her expertise spans landscape architecture, urban design, strategic land planning, campus planning, sustainability, and resilience. Active in her local Urban Lands Institute district council, Caitlin is passionate about the transformative benefits of thoughtful urban design, striving to create environments that positively impact both people and the planet. Her work reflects a deep commitment to sustainable practices, enhancing community resilience, and promoting the wellbeing of urban landscapes. |
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Mark Andre is a Director at Lehman Smith McLeish (LSM), where he leads high-profile architectural and interior design projects. Known for his strategic vision and collaborative leadership, Mark excels at delivering innovative design solutions that balance form, function, and client needs. With a strong background in project management, he oversees complex, large-scale developments across various sectors, including corporate, commercial, and institutional spaces. Mark’s expertise and commitment to design excellence have earned him a reputation as a trusted leader within the industry, driving impactful projects that shape the built environment and elevate client experiences. |
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Olivia Ashbrook is a designer at Forward Design in Kansas City, MO, where she brings creativity and a passion for innovative solutions to her work. With a strong background in design, Olivia is known for her ability to translate ideas into thoughtful, functional spaces that inspire. At Forward Design, she collaborates with clients to deliver projects that merge aesthetics with practicality, always prioritizing the needs and vision of those she serves. Olivia continues to expand her expertise in various design disciplines, making her a valuable asset to the team and a rising talent in the Kansas City design community. |
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Joshua Broadway is a project designer at Olczak Group in Berkeley, California . He earned his master’s degree in Architecture from Kansas State University in 2016 and has since been contributing to a range of innovative architectural projects. At Ennead, Joshua is known for his attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and dedication to crafting functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. With a strong foundation in design and a passion for pushing architectural boundaries, Joshua continues to grow in his role, bringing fresh perspectives to the firm’s diverse portfolio of work across various sectors |
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Joe Daly is a landscape architect at Norris Design, a firm known for its commitment to creating innovative and sustainable design solutions for various projects across multiple sectors. As a key member of the Norris Design team, Joe specializes in Opportunity Development, focusing on understanding the unique business models of his clients to help identify potential properties and projects that align with their long-term goals and objectives. |
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Cale Doornbos is a principal at The Lamar Johnson Collaborative in Kansas City, MO. He entered the design industry after graduating from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture in 2001. Cale’s portfolio spans local, national, and international projects, showcasing his diverse expertise. His strength lies in creating solutions that are culturally significant, sustainable, and responsive to the unique needs and constraints of specific sites. By incorporating global design best practices, Cale has established himself as a leader in landscape architecture, consistently delivering innovative and thoughtful designs that benefit both clients and communities. |
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Jeff Ellison is a principal at Ellison-Auxier Architects in St. Joseph, MO. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Kansas State University in 1990 before joining the firm. Jeff oversees the planning and design phases of all projects, ensuring quality and creativity at every stage. With extensive experience in recreational, faith-based, and educational facilities, he has played a key role in shaping significant projects in these areas. Jeff currently serves as the firm’s representative for Missouri Western State University and Benedictine College, contributing his expertise to create functional and inspiring spaces for both institutions. |
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Brian Foxworthy has been enhancing educational facilities across Kansas and Missouri for over 20 years. With a deep commitment to improving the learning environments for students and educators, Brian facilitates creative design meetings and delivers innovative solutions tailored to his clients' specific needs. His extensive experience in project management includes overseeing high school additions and renovations in occupied buildings, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations. |
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John Frank is an accomplished architect at BRR Architecture in Bentonville, AR. He graduated from Kansas State University in 2002 with a Bachelor’s in Architecture and a Minor in Regional and Community Planning. With extensive experience in retail, grocery, hospitality, and industrial design, John has successfully managed projects from space programming and schematic design to construction and post-occupancy evaluations across the United States. He focuses on integrating innovative technologies and methods to enhance project outcomes. As the leader of BRR’s Bentonville office, he oversees key client relationships and spearheads the firm's initiatives in developing Net Zero Energy Buildings. |
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Michael Friebele is an Associate Principal at Perkins Eastman in Dallas, TX. Originally from St. Louis, MO, he earned his Master’s in Architecture from Kansas State University in 2009. As a contributor to The Architect’s Newspaper and Texas Architect, Michael explores the intersection of the built environment and community interests. Since starting his practice in 2010, he has embraced each project as a storytelling opportunity, emphasizing how buildings can respond to and enhance their surroundings. Michael is also dedicated to education, serving as a lecturer in the Master of Arts in Design and Innovation Program at Southern Methodist University. |
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Natalie Gordon is the Director of Business Development at Anderson Knight in Manhattan, KS. She graduated from Kansas State University with a Master’s in Interior Architecture and Product Design in 2012. Passionate about embracing evolving ideas to create a better tomorrow, Natalie combines her education and design experience with strategic thinking and creative problem-solving. Her approach transcends the boundaries of the built environment, focusing on innovative solutions that enhance functionality and aesthetics. With a commitment to collaboration and sustainability, Natalie plays a key role in fostering relationships that drive business growth and enrich community spaces through thoughtful design. |
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Meredith Hampton is a Project Manager at TESSERE in Wichita, KS. She graduated with a Master’s Degree in Architecture from Kansas State University in 2014 and joined GLMV in 2016, obtaining her Architecture license in 2018. With a strong portfolio and a deep passion for higher education, Meredith has contributed significantly to projects for both Wichita State University and Kansas State University. As a project designer, she focuses on creating innovative and functional spaces that enhance the educational experience, collaborating closely with clients and stakeholders to bring their visions to life while ensuring high standards of design and execution. |
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Lauren Harness is the Director and Professor of Practice at the Kansas City Design Center in Kansas City, MO. She earned her Master’s in Architecture and a Minor in Regional and Community Planning from Kansas State University in 2015. With extensive experience at firms like William Rawn Associates, MASS Design Group, Ennead Architects, and El Dorado, Lauren brings a diverse skill set to her role. Her notable projects include educational facilities, cultural centers, affordable housing, and public parks, reflecting her dedication to socially impactful and environmentally sustainable design. Lauren is committed to mentoring the next generation of architects and designers. |
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Adam Herbig is the Creative Director at Katalyst Group Inc. in North Kansas City, MO. He graduated with a Degree in Interior Architecture and Product Design from Kansas State University in 1999. A natural innovator, Adam excels at identifying and optimizing opportunities for growth and profitability. With a proven track record in driving successful brand and retail initiatives across competitive sectors such as entertainment, consumer electronics, and financial services, he is passionate about engaging with the community. Adam frequently speaks on topics ranging from brand development and storytelling to his personal career journey, inspiring others with his insights and experiences. |
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David Hilderbrandt is the Vice President of Construction and Development at Gulf Coast Hotel Management Inc. in Dallas, TX. He graduated from Kansas State University in 2008 with a Master’s Degree in Architecture. With a multifaceted background in strategic planning, prototype development, construction management, and project management, David excels in brand standard creation and franchisee relations. As a hands-on leader, he focuses on implementing cost-effective and efficient design and construction strategies. David is deeply passionate about design and is particularly intrigued by the interaction between people and the built environment, continuously seeking innovative solutions to enhance user experiences. |
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Jessica Janzen | Principal, SmithGroup | Kansas City, MO
jessica.janzen@smithgroup.com Jessica Janzen is a Principal at SmithGroup, a registered architect, and LEED Accredited Professional (BD+C). She graduated with a Degree in Interior Design from Kansas State University in 2009 and later pursued an M.Arch at UT Austin. A curious, life-long learner, Jessica's career is rooted in the design of higher education spaces ranging from interior renovations to campus plans with a focus on inclusive, student-centered spaces and places. In addition to her work, Jessica is passionate about mentorship, co-leading SmithGroup Dallas's internship program from 2017-2024 prior to relocating to Kansas City and serving as an industry mentor within the Kansas State Interior Design program since 2019. |
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Joe Keal is a Principal at Lamar Johnson Collaborative in Kansas City, MO. He graduated from the University of Kansas in 2002 with a Master’s in Architecture. With over 20 years of experience, Joe has spearheaded award-winning and sustainability-focused designs for higher education, institutional, cultural, and performing arts projects, as well as adaptive reuse, corporate workplaces, and mixed-use developments. His notable projects include the Lewis Center for the Arts at Princeton University and the renovation and expansion of Seaton Hall and McCain Auditorium at Kansas State University, along with the Zhou B Arts Center in Kansas City. Joe is a sought-after speaker on high-performance integrated design and collaborative design processes. |
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Audrey Koehn is the Global Interiors Leader at DLR Group leading more than 200 interior design professionals across the firm's 35 global locations. She is responsible for elevating the impact of interior design work in each of DLR Group's market sectors. She also establishes standards, ensures consistency, inspires future leaders, and reinforces the value of dedicated interior designers on integrated design teams. In addition to her Global Interiors Leader role, Audrey's leadership voice is also heard on DLR Group's Executive Leadership Team, as a former Advisory Board member, and collaborative Integrated Practice Forum leader. Audrey graduated from Kansas State University in 2025 with a Bachelor of Interior Design.
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Amie T. Keener is a Furniture Specialist at Gensler in Dallas, TX. She graduated from Kansas State University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Interior Architecture and Product Design. With a professional background in commercial interiors, Amie has worked on projects for energy companies and professional service firms. Currently, she focuses on furniture services, helping to develop and implement corporate furniture standards for clients such as Devon, Cenovus, Shell, Sewell, Texas Instruments, and Jackson Walker. Through collaboration with major manufacturers and furniture dealers, Amie delivers valuable solutions that enhance her clients’ spaces and contribute positively to the built environment. |
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Peter Kruse is the President of Kruse Development Services Group in Carlsbad, CA. He graduated from Kansas State University in 1981 with a Bachelor’s in Architecture. Growing up in his father's architectural firm and learning construction from his grandfather, Peter's lifelong experiences have fueled his passion for excellence in property development. He specializes in translating his clients’ visions into profitable realities, adeptly achieving owner-determined development objectives and financial goals. With proven leadership skills, Peter effectively manages multiple teams across predevelopment, design, construction, purchasing, and operations, ensuring successful project outcomes that align with his clients' aspirations. |
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Lynn Kuckelman Peters is the President and CEO of LK Design Group Inc. in San Antonio, TX. With over 25 years of experience in interior design and project management, Lynn has built a reputation for delivering innovative and sustainable design solutions across various sectors, including commercial, healthcare, and hospitality. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from Kansas State University and is a certified interior designer. Lynn is passionate about creating spaces that enhance the user experience while reflecting the unique identity of each client. Under her leadership, LK Design Group has received numerous awards for excellence in design and service. |
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David Lane is a Principal at Norris Design in Denver, CO. With a degree in Landscape Architecture from Kansas State University, David brings over 20 years of experience in landscape design and planning. His portfolio includes a diverse range of projects, from urban parks and residential developments to commercial landscapes and master planning initiatives. David is committed to creating sustainable and innovative designs that enhance community engagement and environmental stewardship. He believes in the power of collaborative design processes, working closely with clients and stakeholders to realize their visions while prioritizing functionality and aesthetic appeal in every project. |
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Kyle Leiker, AIA, LEED GA, is an architect at Multistudio, where he brings expertise in sustainable design and a commitment to creating innovative, environmentally responsible buildings. With a focus on high-performance architecture, Kyle integrates LEED principles to deliver projects that are energy-efficient and resource-conscious. His portfolio includes a variety of sectors, from educational facilities to commercial developments, where he blends functionality with cutting-edge design. As a LEED Green Associate, Kyle is dedicated to advancing sustainable practices, helping clients achieve their goals while positively impacting the built environment.Kyle balances pragmatism and thoughtfulness to create projects that shape Kansa City. A true urban dweller, he has spent time living |
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Bob Lindeblad is a Senior Development Manager at BHC in Overland Park, KS. With a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Kansas State University, Bob has over 15 years of experience in the real estate and construction industries. He specializes in managing large-scale development projects, overseeing all phases from initial planning to execution. His expertise lies in fostering strong relationships with clients, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure project success. Bob is dedicated to delivering high-quality results that meet both budgetary and timeline objectives. His commitment to sustainable practices and innovative solutions makes him a valuable asset to the BHC team. |
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Samantha McCloud is an Architect at Gensler in Chicago, IL. She earned her Master of Architecture from Kansas State University and has since developed a robust portfolio encompassing commercial and institutional projects. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for innovative design, Samantha strives to create spaces that enhance user experience and foster community engagement. Her collaborative approach emphasizes open communication with clients and team members, ensuring that each project aligns with its intended vision. Committed to sustainability, she integrates environmentally friendly practices into her designs, contributing to Gensler’s mission of delivering impactful architecture for a better world. |
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Louis Meilink Jr. is a Principal at Ballinger Architects in Philadelphia, PA. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Kansas State University and has over 25 years of experience in the architecture and design industry. Louis specializes in healthcare, educational, and civic projects, emphasizing functional and innovative design that enhances community well-being. His leadership fosters a collaborative environment, inspiring his team to push creative boundaries while adhering to budget and timeline constraints. Committed to sustainability, Louis integrates green building practices into his work, ensuring that his projects are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible and impactful for future generations. |
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Kent Mendenhall is a Principal and Partner at Studio Outside Landscape Architects in Dallas, TX. He earned a minor in Fine Arts from Pittsburg State University in 1991 and a Bachelor’s in Landscape Architecture from Kansas State University in 1995. With over 25 years of experience in landscape architecture, Kent has practiced in both the Los Angeles and Dallas markets. As a design leader, he focuses on creative solutions that balance nature, composition, and culture. Committed to extending landscapes through interdisciplinary collaboration, he has led award-winning projects across North America, the Middle East, and Asia, while exploring innovative design research within the field. |
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Tommy Osborne is the Executive Director of Construction for Northwest Independent School District (ISD) in Justin, TX. With over 15 years of experience in educational facility planning and construction management, he has successfully overseen numerous projects aimed at enhancing learning environments for students. |
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Natalie Petzoldt is an architect at Cannon Design in St. Louis, MO, where she specializes in creating innovative and sustainable design solutions. A graduate of Kansas State University, Natalie brings a keen eye for detail and a collaborative spirit to her projects, which range from educational facilities to healthcare environments. With a passion for integrating user experience and community needs into her designs, she aims to enhance the built environment while promoting functionality and aesthetics. Natalie is committed to fostering design excellence and believes in the transformative power of architecture to positively impact people's lives and communities. |
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Heidi Pollmann is the Director of Marketing at Substance Architecture in Des Moines, IA. With a background in landscape architecture and more than a decade of marketing experience, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s brand identity and expanding its reach. A graduate of Kansas State University’s Landscape Architecture program, Heidi brings over 25 years of experience in the design and construction industry. Prior to joining Substance, she worked with firms specializing in landscape architecture, golf course design, and full-service real estate, giving her a comprehensive view of the design profession and a deep understanding of client needs and expectations. |
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Matthew Porreca is a Principal at LPA Design Studios in San Diego, CA, where he leads innovative design solutions across various project types, including educational, civic, and commercial spaces. A graduate of the University of Southern California, Matthew combines his architectural expertise with a deep understanding of sustainability and community engagement. With over 15 years of experience, he is known for his collaborative approach, fostering partnerships among clients, stakeholders, and design teams. Matthew is passionate about creating environments that inspire and connect people, and he actively mentors emerging designers, emphasizing the importance of creativity and sustainable practices in architecture. |
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Brigitte Preston is a mentor and advisor to students and emerging professionals in the field of Interior Design, based in Dallas, Texas. With a passion for guiding the next generation of designers, Brigitte offers valuable insights and support as they navigate their careers. She previously served as Design Director at Perkins&Will, where she led innovative interior design projects and contributed to the firm’s renowned design excellence. Brigitte’s expertise spans various sectors, and her leadership and mentorship continue to inspire young professionals, shaping their skills and fostering creativity in the design industry. |
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Tony has been an architect and passionate community advocate for over three decades. His care for his hometown shines through both his work and long-term community involvement. As an architect with Hutton, Tony uses his skill, experience and care to create beautiful functional spaces that last. |
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Victor Regnier is a distinguished faculty member at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA, where he specializes in architecture and urban planning. With a rich academic background and extensive professional experience, Victor focuses on the intersection of design, community engagement, and social equity. He has contributed significantly to research on housing, aging, and urban design, shaping policies that impact communities. Victor holds advanced degrees in architecture and his work has been recognized with numerous awards. Beyond academia, he is an ASCA Distinguished Professor who actively engages in public service, promoting sustainable design practices that enhance quality of life in urban settings. |
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Barbara is a Senior Project Manager, Associate and K-12 Client Engagement Leader in the Education studio at Perkins&Will’s Dallas office. She studied abroad at Kansas State University while working towards her Architecture degree at Monterrey Tec. A registered architect in both the United States and Mexico, she has more than 20 years of national and international experience in the architecture and construction industry. For the last decade, Barbara has focused on educational environments, delivering safe, future-ready spaces to support and inspire K-12 and Higher ED students. She is known to be a conscientious and detail-oriented leader, often guiding multiple project teams. Barbara has been a member of A4LE for more than five years, sharing her expertise through multiple speaking engagements at the local and Southern Region level. She has been identified as an emergent leader on the Global A4LE Strategic Plan Steering Committee, as well as At Large Golf Tournament Chair for the North Texas Chapter. Born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico, Barbara is fluent in Spanish and English and currently lives in Frisco, Texas, with her two children. |
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Matthew Teismann is a registered architect with over 10 years of practice experience whose research focuses on history and philosophy of design, in particular spatial ontology. Teismann attended Kansas State University and Harvard University Graduate School of Design, and has previously taught design studios and history and theory at Kent State University (KSU), University of Technology Sydney (UTS), The Ohio State University [OSU], and Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). He has published on topics such as the space of globalism, geopolitical spatial encounters, and counterculture architecture. |
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Jennifer Unrein is an Associate Principal at HFG Architecture in Kansas City, MO. With a robust background in architectural design and project management, she is dedicated to creating innovative, functional spaces that enhance the built environment. Jennifer is passionate about fostering collaboration among multidisciplinary teams and prioritizing client needs throughout the design process. She holds a degree in Architecture and has contributed to a variety of projects across sectors, including residential, commercial, and institutional. Known for her attention to detail and commitment to sustainability, Jennifer strives to develop spaces that inspire and improve the quality of life for their users. |
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Malcom Watkins | Senior Vice President | Schaefer Architecture | Wichita, KS As a licensed architect and Senior Vice President at Schaefer Architecture, Malcolm brings expertise in large-scale design, project management, constructability, and code compliance. His extensive work in education and recreation projects allows him to seamlessly blend design with technical performance. He has also been recognized by the Wichita Business Journal’s '40 Under 40' (2020) and Building Design + Construction’s '40 Under 40' (2023), underscoring his leadership and reliability in the industry. |
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kwineinger@focaldesignstudio.com Kevin is Principal and Co-Founder of Focal, leading projects for our Educational, Institutional, Cultural and Non-Profit clients. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from Kansas State University and, a Master’s Degree in Architecture from UCLA with an emphasis in cultural studies. He has practiced in New York City, Los Angeles and, Chicago including, tenures at the offices of Thomas Phifer and Partners and John Ronan Architects. His 24 years of practicing in the cultural hubs of the United States with world-class clients, architects, fabricators and artists brings a diverse perspective of architecture, culture and the visual arts to our work. Kevin also teaches design and research studios in the Department of Architecture at Kansas State University and serves on the Dean’s Advisory Council. |
Mark Andre | Director | Lehman Smith McLeish (LSM) | Washington, DC
Olivia Ashbrook |Designer | Forward Design | Kansas City, MO
Joshua Broadway | 
Joe Daly| Principal | Norris Design | Austin, TX
Cale Doornbos | Principal | The Lamar Johnson Collaborative | Kansas City, MO
Bill Dunn, Jr | Managing Director | Retired - Campione Interior Solutions | Mission Woods, KS
Jeff Ellison | Principal | Ellison-Auxier Architects | St Joseph, MO
Brian Foxworthy | President | Incite Design Studio | Fairway, KS
John Frank |
Michael Friebele | Associate Principal | Perkins Eastman | Dallas, TX
Natalie Gordon | Director of Business Development Anderson Knight | Manhattan, KS
Meredith Hampton | Project Manager TESSERE | Wichita, KS
Lauren Harness, ex-officio | Director & Professor of Practice | Kansas City Design Center | Kansas City, MO
Adam Herbig | Creative Director, Katalyst Group Inc. | North Kansas City, MO
David Hilderbrandt | Vice President, Construction and Development | Gulf Coast Hotel Management Inc. | Dallas, TX
Joe Keal | Principal Lamar Johnson Collaborative | Kansas City, MO 
Audrey Koehn | 
Amie T. Keener | Furniture Specialist Gensler | Dallas, TX
Peter Kruse | President | Kruse Development Services Group | Carlsbad, CA
Lynn Kuckelman Peters | President/CEO LK Design Group Inc | San Antonio, TX
David Lane | Principal | Norris Design | Denver, CO
Kyle Leiker | Senior Project Architect | 
Bob Lindeblad | Senior Development Manager BHC (retired) | Overland Park, KS
Samantha McCloud | Architect Gensler | Chicago, IL
Louis Meilink Jr. | Principal Ballinger Architects | Philadelphia, PA
Kent Mendenhall | Principal and Partner | Studio Outside Landscape Architects | Dallas, TX
Tommy Osborne | Executive Director of Construction Northwest ISD | Justin, TX
Natalie Petzoldt | Cannon Design | St. Louis, MO
Heidi Pollmann | Director of Marketing | Substance Architecture | Des Moines, IA
Matthew Porreca | Principal | LPA Design Studios | San Diego, CA
Brigitte Preston | 
Tony Rangel | Architect | Hutton | Wichita, KS
Victor Regnier, FAIA | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA
Barbara Rystrom
Michael Schnaare | President | The Lawrence Group | St. Louis, MO
Matthew Teismann | 
Jennifer Unrein | Associate Principal | HFG Architecture | Kansas City, MO
Kevin Wineinger | Principal and Co-Founder of Focal Design Studio | Kansas City, MO