Committing to Long-Term Success

Photo by Michael Krahn on Unsplash

As the American Institute of Architects website emphasizes, the practice of architecture is an intensely personal undertaking. My firm—Robertson/Sherwood/Architects—is no exception. Since 1986, RSA’s identity has inextricably been tied to its current senior partners, Jim Robertson, FAIA, FCSI and Carl Sherwood, AIA. Thanks to their exemplary leadership and commitment to always doing what is in the best interest of the projects we undertake, the communities and clients we serve have rewarded us with their unwavering confidence. The time has come to likewise consider what is in RSA’s best interest as Jim and Carl look forward to transitioning ownership in the coming years to a new generation of firm leaders.(1)

First among this new leadership is Scott Stolarczyk, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, who joins Jim, Carl, and me as a principal and shareholder in the firm. It has been my pleasure to work alongside Scott since 1999. He has amply demonstrated his immense design talent on many notable projects, among them the headquarters for Lone Rock Resources, the ongoing execution of the master plan for The Shedd Institute for the Arts, numerous recreation and aquatic facilities, and Planned Parenthood’s Regional Health & Education Center. Our clients unreservedly trust Scott because they know his follow-through is assured and his judgment is beyond reproach. Scott’s vision and guidance will largely shape the future of the firm.

Additionally, we have promoted both Lana Sadler, AIA, LEED Green Associate, and Becky Thomas, AIA to Associate status to acknowledge their significant contributions. Both joined RSA as freshly minted graduates from architecture school; since then, they have grown professionally and more than proven their mettle in managing some of our most challenging recent projects. Their readiness and capacity to assume greater and greater levels of responsibility bodes well for RSA. By promoting Lana and Becky, we believe we have placed them in the best position to continue to succeed and pursue firm ownership if they choose to.

One benefit of contemplating ownership transition is that it does prompt reconsideration of old paradigms, especially if they are overdue for reexamination. I expect Robertson/Sherwood/Architects will always retain elements of the successful culture and attributes instilled by Jim and Carl. That said, I also envision exciting changes ahead. I look forward to seeing Scott, Lana, and Becky blossom in their new roles and boldly position our firm for continued success in the decades ahead.

It is my pleasure to present this news as my final blog post of 2020, a most unprecedented and challenging year for everyone. I have been and will always be abundantly grateful for the opportunity to work with my RSA colleagues through thick and thin. Here’s to 2021, to new beginnings, and with them the opportunities and promise they bring!

(1)    Even though I only became a shareholder in 2017, I don’t consider myself to be part of the “new generation.” The fact is as a fellow baby-boomer, I anticipate relinquishing my portion of ownership at the same time as or shortly following when Jim and Carl do. One of my roles in the coming years will be to help ensure the success of the transition process.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Robertson/Sherwood/Architects Announces New Promotions

Eugene architectural firm Robertson/Sherwood/Architects PC (RSA) is pleased to announce the promotion of three of its key professional staff.

Scott Stolarczyk, AIA, LEED AP BC+C is the firm’s newest principal and shareholder. A University of Oregon graduate, Mr. Stolarczyk joined RSA in 1999. Since then, he has demonstrated superior design and project management abilities for the firm’s most longstanding clients. He is RSA’s designated sustainability specialist in the office, providing leadership in the incorporation of green design principles and serving as a repository of knowledge on sustainable and resilient design solution.

Lana Sadler, AIA, LEED Green Associate, has been promoted to Associate, acknowledging her significant contributions to many of the firm’s largest projects. A 2002 graduate from Kansas State University, her outstanding technical skills, broad knowledge base, and aptitude for managing design teams have been critical to sustaining the firm’s legacy of service excellence.

Becky Thomas, AIA, has been promoted to Associate. Ms. Thomas joined RSA in 2005 upon graduation from the University of Oregon. Since then, she has worked on a wide range of building types, with an emphasis on public and institutional projects. She is particularly skilled in helping diverse user groups move their projects forward toward the best possible outcomes.

“Scott, Lana, and Becky have been essential players in our ability to provide the highest levels of design and project management in service to our clients. We are thrilled to announce their promotion to positions of leadership in the firm,” said RSA president Jim Robertson, FAIA, FCSI.

About Robertson/Sherwood/Architects PC (www.robertsonsherwood.com)

Robertson/Sherwood/Architects PC (RSA) is a general architectural practice offering comprehensive services to clients throughout Oregon. The firm’s success is a result of its commitment to quality architectural design, personal service to its clients, and user involvement in the planning process. RSA’s projects range from modest remodels to prominent and award-winning institutional and public facilities.