 | 1 LU | HSW |
| 1 LU | HSW |
Date/Time: November 6, 2026 | 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Room: TAHOMA 2
Furnished by: Artcobell
Abstract: How do you measure design decisions and success? This session explores using community engagement to generate metrics that inform initial decisions and provide a baseline to measure success through post-occupancy surveying. The session weighs engagement approaches on different project types while highlighting a six-year long case study showcasing how metrics were used to shift the pedagogy of a school district. The highlighted study looks at how metrics informed a master plan for the rapidly growing district, built consensus around design and construction of a high school academic center, and were used to measure the project’s success against the original intent.
Learning Objectives:
Assessment of the School Facility
The ability to objectively evaluate a learning environment post occupancy and utilize that data to improve future projects. Implements a plan for educational commissioning that provides guidance on how to use and maximize the learning environment to meet the foundational vision established in the planning phase.
Francis oversees our design effort by creating and demonstrating designs for clients through 3D representation. He creates design options to meet the established goals, help clients assess design decisions, and communicate the design intent. Francis led the master planning, community engagement and initial design concept for Bixby Public Schools high school master plan and academic facility. He earned his undergraduate degree from Lawrence Technological University and his Master of Architecture from the University of Michigan.
Kate is an architect and Chief Operating Officer at Ethos Architects. She leads firm operations, client engagement, and project strategy while guiding complex projects from early visioning through construction. Kate builds partnerships with clients and stakeholders to deliver meaningful design outcomes. She holds degrees in architecture and structural engineering from Oklahoma State University and serves as an adjunct professor there, where she enjoys research on design’s impact on people and place.
Sarah is President and CEO of Ethos Architects, where she leads the firm in delivering thoughtful, innovative design solutions across all project sectors. Passionate about designing academic environments that enhance the human experience, she prioritizes collaboration, mentorship, and inclusivity in both the firm’s work and culture. Sarah holds degrees from UCLA, the University of Texas at Austin, and the University of Oklahoma–Tulsa and is a past president of the A4LE Oklahoma Chapter.
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Seattle Convention Center
705 Pike Street
Seattle, WA 98101
November 4-7, 2026
Email: donna@a4le.org
+1 480.391.0840