Bio:

The Great designer, Shannon is a project manager at Duvall Decker Architects, PA, Shannon anticipates challenges and offers unprompted resolutions. She received the Alpha Rho Chi Medal of Leadership upon graduation from Mississippi State University, and continues to advance her leadership skills as a volunteer for AIA, serving positions including AIA Mississippi Chapter President and 2020 Strategic Council Associate Representative. Shannon’s most valued efforts are in support of equity, diversity and inclusion in practice.

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How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?

After attending a design discovery camp at Mississip- pi State University, I became aware of being subject

to spaces others crafted. The possibility of being an active participant in the design of the built environ- ment soon became a principal focus.

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What do you do?

I am a designer and project manager at Duvall Decker Architects, P.A. in Jackson, Mississippi. I am also the Associate Representative to the 2020 AIA Strategic Council, and a member of the US Architects Declare Steering Committee.

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What excites you in the work you do?

The potential for significant positive consequence in each project is the most exciting aspect of the work in which I have been able to contribute.

 

Who or what inspires you professionally?

I am inspired by the people that I work with. We are all passionate people who believe in the potential our work has to better the world. We are at once leaders and teammates, and we work collaboratively and tirelessly in pursuit of public good.

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What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?

One experience that stands out is working on the Operation Shoestring building renovation. Being an African American woman, leading a design with Afri- can American women teachers, for African American children is a priceless memory of personal pride.

 

Featured Project Name: 

Ellen Harris Center Renovation

 

Featured Project Location: 

Jackson, Mississippi

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Featured Project Completion Date: 

October 2019

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Role in Featured Project: 

Designer/Project Manager

 

Featured Project Description:

Operation Shoestring is a non-profit organization offering after school and summer programs for youth
in central Jackson, Mississippi neighborhoods. The Ellen Harris Center Renovation transforms an existing building into an open, inviting educational center. Through a collaborative design process, the design team and staff brought forward innovative teaching strategies to inspire student creativity and curiosity. The project impact is great and a commitment to uplift families in the community.

 

Photography Credit:

Roy T. Decker, FAIA, Duvall Decker Architects, P.A.

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