DRA Names Three New Associates

DRA is pleased to announce the promotion of three outstanding individuals as Associates of the firm. The new associates, Sarah Carda, Judd Christopher, and Courtney Southwick represent the firm’s commitment to excellence and growth.

Sarah Carda, AIA, LEED AP, joined DRA in 2001, and is a Project Architect with over 20 years of design experience. She has served as a Project Manager, Project Architect, Job Captain and/or Designer on a multitude of project types including educational facilities, with a focus on career and technical schools, performing arts, and athletic/recreational facilities.  With her expertise in construction document technology, she manages in-house architectural teams with unique rigor and attention to detail in the coordination of drawings produced under her leadership. As a LEED accredited professional, she also maximizes the integration of sustainable practices and high-performance strategies, and serves as a senior advisor in this respect on all DRA projects. Sarah has led several charitable initiatives for DRA including her design of a treehouse for the “Make a Wish” foundation. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Savannah College of Art and Design.  Sarah is licensed in Massachusetts and is a member of the American Institute of Architects and Boston Society of Architects.  Sarah is also active in community theatre as a set designer and construction manager, which brings added depth to her theater and performing arts design expertise. Sarah lives with her husband and their son in Natick, MA.

Judd Christopher has been a valued member of the DRA team since 1994. His diverse portfolio at DRA includes educational, historic, civic, healthcare, and institutional projects. As a solution-oriented designer, Judd brings a depth of expertise in building technology, code compliance and cost estimating to bear when determining the best solutions for each unique project. Frequently, his experience with large scale, complex and often-phased renovations has saved clients millions of dollars as he finds creative ways to rehabilitate existing structures in lieu of demolition. Judd has been a mentor to many DRA staff, sharing his extensive experience in construction detailing, specifications writing and construction administration. He has served as DRA’s liaison for many career orientation programs for school districts with which the firm has worked. Judd is MCPPO certified and has been leading DRA projects through the Public Bid Laws and Procurement process for his entire career. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Architecture from the Boston Architectural Center, and an associate degree in Architectural Technology, from Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie, NY. He lives with his wife and their two sons in Waltham, MA.

Courtney Southwick joined DRA in 2009 and has since led architectural teams from concept through occupancy on a variety of educational projects. She is a designer dedicated to advancements in educational environments, sustainability, and innovative construction technologies. Courtney provides leadership for the firm  in Building Information Modelling (REVIT), Sustainability and document quality control. As a DRA Project Manager, she has contributed to project teams on a wide range of projects including complex renovations, major additions as well as large-scale new construction. Courtney’s experience with DRA also includes Campus Master Planning within our Independent School practice as well as managing Municipal and School District Feasibility Studies. Frequently, Courtney serves as a mentor and design critic for young staff serving internships at DRA, enriching their experience with genuine exposure to real challenges within the design and construction process. Courtney holds a master’s degree in Architecture from Boston Architectural College, and a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Design, from Texas A&M University. She lives with her husband and their son in Framingham, MA.

“These three individuals represent the values of DRA Architects,” stated Carl Franceschi, President of DRA. “Their leadership, technical expertise, and commitment strengthen our firm’s ability to deliver outstanding projects to our clients. These well-deserved promotions come at an exciting time, as DRA is celebrating our 95th year anniversary. DRA’s continued growth and success is reinforced by the professionalism and dedication of these valuable team members.”