Carol Bacon, AIA | ADW Architects

In practice, Carol leads new construction and renovation projects across K–12 education, higher education, and cultural sectors while also directing firm wide initiatives focused on mentorship, professional development, and licensure support. In addition to being a registered architect in North Carolina and an active leader within the American Institute of Architects, she is also a part-time Lecturer at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte School of Architecture where she has taught design studios, writing seminars, and interdisciplinary courses since 2014. Additionally, she serves as the Integrated Path to Licensure (IPAL) Coordinator and advises students and emerging professionals pursuing architectural licensure.

Joel Fuoss, AIA  | Trivers

With more than 25 years of experience, Ryan is a nationally recognized leader in the design and delivery of transformative, award-winning mixed-use, retail, housing, and community-focused developments. His forward-thinking approach is grounded in the belief that successful projects are defined by thoughtful design; creating engaging experiences, strong connectivity, and a distinct sense of place that drives long-term value. In addition to his role as a Principal with Progressive Companies, he has been actively involved with numerous industry and civic organizations, including the Urban Land Institute (ULI), NAIOP, ICSC, U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), and the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce. His community impact also includes contributions to initiatives such as Rock Hill’s Miracle Park and the International Stillbirth Alliance. 

Kevin Kennedy, AIA | Cluck Design

Kevin is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and has been practicing architecture and design for over 25 years. With projects ranging from furniture and bicycle racks to full scale urban planning, Kevin’s deliberate approach to design consistently renders beautiful and functional results, regardless of scale or scope. His work has been published and has received numerous design awards. As a former lead designer and project architect for Shook Kelley, Kevin gained experience in many areas including furniture design, retail and storefront design, corporate office, mixed use, and urban planning. In addition to being a licensed architect in several states, Kevin has also been a Guest Professor at UNCC, teaching design and methods of digital representation.

Marc Manack, FAIA | SILO AR+D

Marc is an architect, Associate Professor, and Undergraduate Program Director at the Ravin School of Architecture at UNC Charlotte. He is also the founding principal of the architecture and design practice SILO AR+D. His professional design work and creative practice have been recognized nationally and internationally in numerous publications, exhibitions, and design awards. SILO has been recognized as an Emerging Voice by The Architectural League of New York (2016), a Next Progressive in Architect Magazine (2018), and AN Interior Top 50 American Architects by the Architect’s Newspaper (2021). In 2022, SILO was chosen by the Walton Family Foundation for inclusion in its Design Excellence Program. SILO has also been selected as an artist in residence at the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts and Loghaven.

Catherine Monroe, AIA | Housing Studio

Catherine has focused her 24-year architectural career on buildings that reflect and strengthen the communities in which they are invested, looking at design problems from the eyes of the community first. As a licensed architect in North Carolina since 2008 and an integral member of the Housing Studio team, she has designed and managed affordable and market rate, mixed-use housing, including several award-winning projects around the Southeast, notably the master plan for the Seigle Avenue Hope VI affordable housing redevelopment in Charlotte. In 2002 she received the AIA North Carolina J. Hyatt Hammond Award and in 2020, the AIA Charlotte Citizen Architect Service Award. She has also served on the UNC Charlotte College of Architecture Alumni Board, the Roof Above Close to Home Capital Campaign Advisory Board, and the boards of both AIA Charlotte and AIA North Carolina, serving as President of AIA Charlotte in 2017.

Marcus Thomas, AIA | KEi Architects

With experience spanning higher education, healthcare, K-12, public sector, and sports-related projects, Marcus is known for pairing strong design leadership with a practical understanding of client goals, budgets, and schedules. A graduate of Hampton University, his background includes both architectural practice and owner-side facilities experience, giving him a well-rounded perspective on project delivery and stakeholder needs. He is passionate about creating thoughtful, impactful environments that strengthen communities and support long-term growth. In addition to his professional work, Marcus is actively engaged in industry leadership and service through the American Institute of Architects, the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, the National Architectural Accrediting Board, and the National Organization of Minority Architects.