Jane is a talented Senior Architect that specializes in healthcare facility design. Jane has always been captivated by the world of art and design, which eventually led her to pursue a career in architecture. With a deep appreciation for both artistic and technical aspects of design, Jane has left her mark on numerous innovative healthcare projects.
Read more about how Jane’s designs reach not only users but also both the local and broader community.
Can you tell us the “backstory” about what brought you to this career path?
From a young age, I have always had a deep appreciation and awareness for art and design. This passion guided my decision to pursue an undergraduate degree in art history. However, while completing an internship at the Art Institute in Chicago, a newfound passion for architecture and design was ignited. Working in the architectural department, I was surrounded by awe-inspiring sketches and renderings created by architects who played a significant role in shaping the Chicago skyline. This exposure to centuries of inspirational design helped me realize my true calling, leading me to pursue a master’s degree in architecture at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design.
When I applied to Harvard GSD, my portfolio consisted of a mod-podge of figure drawings, various prints, and even a recipe for tomato jam. I may not have started grad school with the same foundational knowledge as my peers, but this program allowed me to further explore and refine my skills. After graduating, I worked at several other architecture companies before discovering my place within Shepley as a Healthcare architect.
What are you most proud of accomplishing?
One project that was particularly fulfilling to work on was Sherman Hospital in Elgin, Illinois. The project was a replacement Hospital for Advocate Sherman Hospital, consolidating an outdated series of buildings and addition which had outgrown the existing hospital site. Located in the middle of a cornfield, our team had to strategically plan for a green field 135-acre site plan, including future expansion. The project’s most refreshing challenge was integrating sustainable practices into design while also meeting Sherman’s budget. My favorite integration was creating a man-made lake, which I designed the shape of, to harness geo-thermal energy that powered the facility. The Owner’s commitment to the project, plus the talent of an incredible team of Shepley architects and engineering consultants made completing this project particularly fulfilling.
What do you do for fun in your spare time?
I value spending time with my friends and family whether it’s hiking around Massachusetts, or biking and sailing through Wisconsin where I grew up. I am also a Girl Scout leader for my daughter’s troop, which I love, because it’s an opportunity to spend time with my daughter and expose the next generation to STEM, the outdoors, and other powerful lessons.
