Bio:

The great architect, Vanessa earned a BS in Design from UNL, a historic preservation certificate, and a Master of Architecture from UMD before joining DLR Group in 2005. Her commitment to the profession pushed her to licensure within 4 yrs. Vanessa is a national DLR Group K-12 design expert and Principal in the Omaha office as well as the K-12 Sector Leader for the Central Region. She is an active AIA Leader at the state level, she has served on numerous boards and currently serves as the AIA NE Past President.

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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?

I first became interested in architecture when my parents were renovating & adding on to our cabin. I was included me in the design process by designing the kitchen floor pattern. I believe this is why I try to include students in all of my projects.

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What do you do?

I’m an educational facility planner, designer and educator. I design environments that serve as tools for educators and inspiration for students. I engage them in the process whenever possible. Exposure to the profession attracts future designers.

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What excites you in the work you do?

I am the daughter of two teachers. When I am working on a school, I feel like I am working for a greater good. I am helping to create active and engaging learning environments for students. I believe it is my opportunity to contribute to the future.

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Who or what inspires you professionally?

Students and educators inspire me. Great teachers can teach anywhere. It is my job is to make it easier for them and enhance what they do. Teachers and students appreciate the little things, so it is always fun when I get thank notes from a class.

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What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?

My proudest accomplishment was when I was asked to be DLR Group’s Central Region K-12 Sector Leader & its representative on the firm’s global K-12 Forum. The Forum is responsible for the strategic vision & innovation of the DLR Group’s K-12 practice.

 

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Featured Project Name: 

Sioux Falls SD Jefferson High School

 

Featured Project Location: 

Sioux Falls, SD

 

Featured Project Completion Date: 

Summer 2021

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Role in Featured Project: 

Programmer and Lead Design

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Featured Project Description:

The new Jefferson HS in Sioux Falls, SD, will serve 1800 students in 9th - 12th grade. The design was inspired by the nearby waterfall that gave the city its name, drawing from images of water moving through boulders and rocks. There was focus on a multi-disciplinary approach to curriculum delivery by breaking down the scale of the building with a variety of different learning spaces to support a multitude of unique learners. Transparency was also a key asset to enhance safety and security.

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Photography Credit:

DLR Group Rendering & Dana Damewood

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