Collaboration Day 2019

Collaboration is a hallmark of our design process and a key value of our firm. Every few years Ayers Saint Gross brings together all employees across our three offices for a day-long gathering known as Collaboration Day. This is an opportunity to put our values into practice, share experiences with colleagues, recognize and reward exemplary efforts, and, ultimately, bring the inspiration gained from the day into our work for our clients.

While collaboration is the purpose of the day, creativity is really what it’s all about. We opened up with an art show titled “Intersections” on the evening before Collaboration Day’s formal start. Employees from all offices and discipline groups entered their original artwork for display. There were paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings, and more. It is always striking to see just how much energy and passion our colleagues bring to their creative endeavors outside of work as well.

The following morning, we gathered at the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore. The day was filled with informative presentations and valuable interactions. We shared examples of our work and vision of excellence. Seeing the expertise that our employees bring and the understanding and appreciation gained for what others do is incredibly valuable. We also spent time reviewing our impact in the community with which we live and work. We believe that giving back is an essential part of collaboration.

Rounding out the day, we acknowledged and rewarded exceptional collaboration with the presentation of the Lex Schwartz Collaboration Awards. Inspired by our long-time mentor and master collaborator, Lex Schwartz, this annual award recognizes the highest level of leadership in collaboration for the betterment of our projects and clients, our firm and employees, and the communities we serve. The awards are given both to a project team and an individual. We were extremely proud to award these honors to the Whittle School and Studios team, and to Principal and Interior Designer, Linnea Kessler-Gowell.

Collaboration Day reiterates the vital importance of investing in people. The creativity of our staff and the inspiration we give to one another pushes all of us to deliver the very best for our clients. Kevin Jones, Associate, Architect, and a leader in the Employee Ownership and Finance Committee, summed this up beautifully during the event. Enjoy his words and video highlights from the day. We can’t wait to share what our team comes up with next.