Lisa McClellan and Jeff Hammond retire as Principals of Scott Edwards Architecture
It is bittersweet that we announce the retirements of Scott Edwards Architecture Principals Lisa McClellan and Jeff Hammond. Lisa and Jeff were named principals of the firm in 2013, and in the 10 years since have made a resounding impact on the design that we practice, the client relationships that we’ve built, and the company culture that we love. At the close of 2023, Lisa and Jeff may be moving on to their next chapters, but all that they’ve contributed to SEA leaves a lasting legacy worth celebrating.
Lisa joined SEA in 2003 and her first project with the firm was Villa del Sol, a housing development for farmworker families in McMinnville. Designing affordable housing and non-profit, community-driven spaces motivated her to join the firm, and in her 20 years here, she has worked on over 1,175 affordable housing units, 6 community-based health clinics, 4 childhood development centers, and countless other impactful places. And Lisa’s legacy is more than her design work—those she has inspired with her commitment to serving marginalized communities and providing good design for everyone will continue to build upon her tremendous body of work.
When asked about her plans, Lisa shared that she is “not sure what the future holds for me as I will be taking some time to explore the next chapter in my career but what I do know is that this firm will continue to prioritize and excel in designing for communities. Sid and Kelly mentored me in my first 10 years here and I focused on doing the same for others during my time as a principal.” She looks forward to seeing how SEA grows and evolves and added that “sometimes as a leader, it is important to know when to step aside and give others the opportunity to shine.”
This sentiment is particularly poignant considering what her fellow principals have shared about her, describing Lisa as a thoughtful and patient mentor who empowers her team and leads through professionalism and intelligence. “Lisa can take a design concept and make it stronger, helping articulate clearly what the intent was and how to make it better,” says Principal Rick Berry. “Her style of leadership gives ownership of design decisions to her studio members while still being supportive and present and helping them make decisions,” says Principal Peter Grimm. Each of her colleagues also commented on how instrumental Lisa has been in shaping the firm’s design culture and her passion for providing elevated design no matter the project.
“Her style of leadership gives ownership of design decisions to her studio members while still being supportive and present and helping them make decisions,” says Principal Peter Grimm.
Jeff’s tenure at SEA is marked by his long-term client relationships and prioritization of the details. He joined the firm in 2000 as Employee #6 and his focus on providing an exceptional experience to the people we work with, from clients to consultants to communities, strengthened our foundation and is woven into our processes. When Jeff was named principal in 2013, he was excited to develop his studio with an emphasis on hospitality, retail, and veterinary clients, fostering in his team a dedication to creating thoughtfully planned places. “I have always been interested in how to do projects more efficiently,” shares Jeff, “focusing on meeting clients’ needs and giving them a project that is well thought out, done on time, and within their budget.”
He has succeeded on all accounts, and with one client alone, Banfield Pet Hospitals, has led the completion of more than 250 clinics across 24 states. About Jeff’s travels, Principal Brian Mares joked that his “impact on the firm is measured by his technical acumen in the architectural field, the supportive environment he fosters for his team, and the staggering number of airline miles he’s accrued.” Echoing Brian’s thoughts, Principal Alden Kasiewicz said that
“a large part of Jeff’s legacy is the talented team of designers in his studio. His training and mentorship helped create a group of individuals with an incredibly well-rounded set of skills who are an asset to their projects and the SEA team.”
Reflecting on his 23 years with SEA, Jeff remembers how his “fondest memories all revolve around time spent celebrating the staff. Whether the annual parking lot party, holiday bowling party, impromptu gatherings—I love sharing time and recognizing everyone’s efforts and accomplishments.” When asked what’s next, he shares that he and his wife plan to travel across the country in their RV exploring places they’ve always wanted to visit. He also plans to tackle some house projects (apparently architects never truly retire) and work on his golf game.
Founding Principal Sid Scott has countless memories of Jeff and Lisa and can recount many instances that display both their character as people and their contribution to the firm. About Jeff, Sid shares that it’s “his dedication to relationships—clients, his studio members, his fellow principals—and his attention to detail on all fronts that have always stood out.” When describing Lisa, Sid says that “her advocacy for good design, no matter the perceived importance of the project, and the effort she put forth to inspire in others a passion for impactful architecture” is how she’s most shaped the firm. And both, he shares, care deeply about people, and this is reflected in their work.
Amid this transition, SEA is also entering our next chapter. Stay tuned for announcements sharing more about the exciting leadership evolution our firm has in the works. In the meantime, prior to their official retirement on December 31st, 2023, please join us in congratulating Lisa and Jeff. SEA is grateful for their many years of expertise, dedication, and tremendous influence in shaping our firm into what it is today.
