STATEMENT OF INTENT
There is no greater responsibility in upholding the American dream than in the design of educational facilities, within the practice of architecture. Tracie’s commitment to this dream goes beyond architecture, but the physical embodiment of that sacred promise embodies her professional career. Even her masters thesis; “Re-Thinking Reiche,” explored renovating a school with an accompanying paper garnering the 2010 AIAS Research Award.
Tracie aims to utilize inclusive methods of engaging students and educators in the design process, with her commitment to understanding how schools are utilized leading her to become a certificated substitute teacher, currently teaching two weekly classes.
Two years ago Tracie founded Dextrous Creative, a multi-disciplinary firm with expertise in educational program development, research, architecture and master planning. The firm has completed a master plan for a community sailing organization and is beginning an academic master plan for a private school, partnered to develop design concepts for a learning center at a local museum, and recently published a report on utilization of a park slated for re-development.
The AIA’s CAE conferences have been highly recommended by former colleagues. She hopes to use the opportunity to network with established professionals, learn about emerging trends, and tour state-of-the-art school buildings.
BIOGRAPHY
Tracie specializes in bringing people together to solve problems. Her experience and interests are diverse; with a background in master planning, architecture, teaching and research.
She believes that school designers should be comfortable teaching in schools and working with students and educators. She is a certified cycling and pedestrian safety educator regularly giving presentations to students on safe walking and biking. Additionally, she runs a weekly robotics and technology club, and coaches an Odyssey of the Mind team for students in grades K-6 at Waynflete School in Portland.
When not at the office, Tracie can be found volunteering on the Advocacy Committee of the Maine AIA, and at Merrill Auditorium, Friends of Congress Square Park and the Portland Symphony Orchestra. In her free time she enjoys racing Etchells on Casco Bay, cycling, bowling at Bayside Bowl, and swing dancing.