Shepley Bulfinch Principal Receives 2025 American Library Association Presidential Citation
Principal Kelly Karpinsky, AIA, LEED AP, is one of eight awardees to receive the American Library Association 2025 Presidential Citation, designated by the organization’s Core: Leadership, Infrastructure, Futures committee. Awarded by current Core President Angie Ohler, the Core Presidential Citations recognize distinguished achievements by Core members who make significant contributions to both the association and the profession.
“Kelly is most deserving of this recognition,” says Luke Voiland, AIA, executive vice president, practice strategy, Shepley Bulfinch. “We’re honored that she brings her commitment to library innovation and design thinking to her clients and colleagues at Shepley.”
The ALA has recognized Kelly for her contributions to the Buildings and Operations Section, and her numerous leadership roles across the Core, including the chair of the Buildings and Operations Leadership Section. As an expert in library design, programming, and planning, Kelly has left an indelible mark on collegiate and public libraries and learning commons across the United States and internationally.
I’m honored to join the remarkable class of dedicated professionals who have received this award. ALA and Core have given me invaluable insight through collaboration with librarians and other design professionals, providing the opportunity to broaden my perspectives and contribute to the evolving role of libraries. I encourage anyone curious about getting involved to explore what Core has to offer.
Throughout her career, Kelly has successfully led numerous high-profile library projects for clients including the University of Notre Dame, McGill University, and Virginia Commonwealth University. Her work has consistently received acclaim for its innovative solutions to complex spatial and programmatic challenges, particularly related to the evolving role of libraries in the digital age and diversity in planning these public and accessible spaces. She shares insights with her community across a variety of forums, conferences, and webinars.
Kelly and her 2025 cohort will receive their citations on Saturday, June 28, at the Core Awards Ceremony and President’s Program during the 2025 ALA Annual Conference and Exhibition in Philadelphia.
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