The Path to Architecture
My journey to architecture wasn't traditional. Before I ever drafted a floor plan, I spent years in direct service—experiences that fundamentally shaped how I approach design.
At HASC Center in Brooklyn, I served as Senior Counselor for residents with developmental disabilities. I designed personalized care plans, managed crisis interventions, and learned that environments directly impact behavior, dignity, and quality of life. A well-designed space isn't a luxury—it's therapeutic.
As an NYPD Auxiliary Police Officer in the 69th Precinct, I supported law enforcement during emergencies, public events, and mental health crises. I saw firsthand how the built environment affects public safety, community trust, and outcomes for vulnerable populations.
These experiences led me to architecture school with a clear purpose: design spaces that serve people at their most vulnerable moments.
Professional Background
Today, I'm recognized as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Justice Design and Behavioral Health Facility Design. Over the past decade, I've contributed to some of the most significant civic projects in the country:
NYC Borough-Based Jails (2019-2024)
Led design for the facilities replacing Rikers Island—high-rise detention centers in Manhattan, Brooklyn, The Bronx, and Queens. Three years focused on security compliance, therapeutic environments, and humane design within strict operational requirements.
Behavioral Health Facilities
Designed therapeutic treatment centers including the Baltimore Therapeutic Treatment Center and OTxHU Woodhull Hospital, balancing clinical requirements with environments that support mental well-being and recovery.
Civic & Courthouse Projects
Morris County Courthouse (NJ), Macomb County Jail expansion (MI), and justice facilities for Native American tribal communities—each requiring careful attention to cultural context, security, and public service.
Emergency Response
During COVID-19, I served as on-site lead for the US Army Corps of Engineers, converting an athletic complex into a 1,024-bed Alternate Care Facility in 28 days.
Technical Expertise
I combine design skill with deep technical capability:
- Revit & BIM Management – Advanced modeling, custom parametric family creation, Dynamo scripting
- Security Compliance – ASTM F33 standards, physical attack ratings, detention-grade specifications
- AI Integration – Automated Room Data Sheets, NSF calculations, Power BI reporting
- All Project Phases – Predesign through Construction Documentation
Education & Credentials
Bernard & Anne Spitzer School of Architecture, CCNY
Bachelor of Architecture,
December 2019
Professional Status
- Registered Architect (RA), New York State
- Associate Member, American Institute of Architects (AIA)
- NCARB certified
- Passed all six divisions of ARE 5.0
Recognition
Semifinalist, Standard Chartered Women+Tech4NYC ($25k Grand Prize) for
"The Green Capsule" - a building-integrated vertical hydroponic system.
Collaboration
For specialized justice and behavioral health projects, I collaborate with Peter C. Krasnow, FAIA—one of the field's most respected justice architects. This partnership combines decades of justice design leadership with advanced BIM technology and fresh perspective.