Moving Forward

by Leesa Vardeman, AIA, Principal MOVING FORWARD

Over the last 12 months, we have joyfully celebrated VLK Architects’ 30th anniversary by reflecting on our considerable portfolio of projects, our valued relationships with clients, consultants, contractors and employees, and our impact on the communities where we work and live. I have had the pleasure of being a part of VLK for all those years, and firmly believe that our organization grows stronger each and every day through the creativity, ingenuity, focus, and commitment of each member of our talented team. I have often imagined what kind of courage and resolve must have existed in the founders of the company: Howard Vestal, Randy Loftis and Jeff Kalista to take the initiative of opening up an architectural firm, but I am sure thankful to them for doing so. They created a company with strong ethical values, a culture of determination to do what is best for our clients, and an atmosphere of camaraderie admired by all who have spent time here. Because of our strong foundation and aligned values, we have weathered many challenges. I am proud to say that through them all, we have emerged smarter and closer than ever before. With any milestone anniversary, we consider not only where we have been, but also where we are going. Our future is very bright! There is an energy and excitement felt throughout our organization. Never before have we had so many talented leaders emerge to serve our clients and grow our business. Their vision and willingness to take on challenging tasks inspires all of us to outperform. Our design solutions are user focused and our design efforts are providing our clients with a unique and meaningful personal experience. Two extraordinary leaders, Sloan Harris and Todd Lien, have been at the forefront of this effort guiding the firm with their unparalleled determination, wisdom, and distinctive vision. They have contributed considerable effort and care in the growth of our business, the growth of our employees, and in the expansion of VLK into new geographic areas, as well as new markets. Their commitment to VLK and its employees has defined them as the voice of VLK leadership. Because of their exceptional qualities, I am happy to announce that they have been named Partners. This next generation of leaders will be essential in defining the future of VLK for years to come. Sloan’s leadership is yielding a more relevant, progressive architectural practice that combines excellent design with innovative delivery solutions. He inspires our youngest generation to contribute their fresh voice through blogs, design competitions, and community service. He encourages our most experienced generation of architects to apply their strengths through firm leadership, mentorship, and team collaboration. He has us all asking, “Why?” before we “just do it.” Todd’s leadership is inspiring a heightened commitment to excellent client service and professional accountability. His gentle nature and thoughtful counsel instills trust and devotion from people both inside and outside of VLK. Todd has his hand in ensuring that all of our clients have an exceptional experience throughout the project delivery, and get design they can trust. It is an exciting time at VLK! We have had a great three decades, but are eagerly looking to the future. We are so proud of the projects that are being created, feel blessed by our strong relationships, and are inspired to produce our very best solutions.

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