Twenty six years ago, Bill and I decided to follow through on a vision that had been burning in our hearts for a while – to start our own firm. We shared a strong sense that with the right focus and dedication, our work could have a meaningful impact on the lives of the people who lived or worked in the buildings that we designed. We also knew that our work could help build stronger communities. From that sense of purpose, we embarked on an amazing adventure together.
Bill not only mentored and inspired staff, he also was a teacher and a mentor to me over the years. He taught me how to ask questions, how to listen with an open mind, how to get to the heart of the matter. Bill has inspired my work throughout our partnership, and I imagine he will continue to inspire me as he moves into the next phase of his personal adventure. His ability to get to the essence of the grand vision and the desire to partner with community builders are all leading Bill in new directions. As he pursues his new endeavors in development and consulting, I’m sure that underlying his work will be that same dedication to the empowerment of the people his projects will touch and the well-being of the communities in which he will be immersed.
I’m so proud of what we started together. The firm has never been better. In recent years, Michelle Black and Corey Morris joined our Leadership Team, and we are continuing to live our mission every day and look to the future. Our projects are strengthening the fabric of our community, bringing housing that is affordable and vibrant to neighborhoods throughout the Portland Metro Region and beyond. We’re doing what we set out to do. Thank you, Bill! We’ll miss you!