As I reflect back on the accomplishments and challenges of the past year, I can’t help but feel optimistic about the year ahead of us. I am so proud of the impact that the collective efforts of the entire team at LPA|A have had. Making a difference in our community is not secondary in our work, it is what drives us, and seeing the potential in the projects and initiatives already underway is exciting and motivating.

There are few things more gratifying in our work than seeing the excited faces of students at a new school opening, and with Beal Elementary and South High still fresh in our memories, we are looking forward to moving Worcester’s Doherty Memorial High School closer to that day over the course of this year. Given the size and scope of the project, we were able to take advantage of the specialized expertise of every staff member. See the construction progress here.

We have an amazing team at LPA|A, with everyone bringing their own unique perspectives and expertise to their work. We tend to think the longevity of our staff speaks to a work environment where people feel their contributions are having a positive impact, and there are always new opportunities to learn, create, and solve problems. We have also been fortunate to bring some new staff on board in recent years who were looking for a place where they could have a positive impact through their work.

I am pleased to see the team taking on a variety of volunteer roles and community service projects. Sean Brennan became involved in our local chapter of the AIA, and as of last month is the vice president and treasurer of the Central Massachusetts AIA. Supporting the architecture industry in our local region is important to the firm, and LPA|A staff have been involved with the local AIA chapter throughout our 50-year history. Caroline Deltoro in our marketing department has additionally taken a role as their executive director.

Other LPA|A team members continue to contribute their time and expertise to Girls Inc., Preservation Worcester, the Women’s Leadership Conference, local planning boards, the Construction Specifications Institute and mentoring local students.

With the 300th anniversary of the City of Worcester this year, we are continuing to be of service and have an impact here, whether through the buildings we design or in supporting initiatives like Worcester Homecoming or local nonprofits.

We are also excited about projects across various sectors, including higher education. We are fortunate in this region to have the invaluable resource of outstanding higher education institutions. With an ongoing project at Clark to transform their Little Theater, various projects at Worcester State University, and a new contract with Quinsigamond Community College, we are pleased to have a role in keeping these spaces vibrant and modern.

Katie Crockett, President, LPA|A