Cushing Terrell Promotes Shannon Christensen to Principal
Christensen, AIA, LEED BD+C, joins senior leadership team of multidisciplinary design firm Cushing Terrell.
Shannon Christensen, Architect, Project Manager, and Principal
Shannon Christensen, project manager and leader of the firm’s architecture practice, has been named principal, joining Cushing Terrell’s senior leadership team. Christensen was chosen due to her extensive experience managing the strategy and growth of the firm’s largest service sector; her proven ability to expertly manage people, projects, and client relationships; and her commitment to industry and community involvement.
“Shannon has been a fast-rising leader at our firm, successfully taking on increasing responsibilities while simultaneously showcasing what it looks like to drive education, advancement, and inclusion in the architecture sector as a whole,” President and CEO Greg Matthews said. “She is known for her volunteer work with local schools, mentorship of those pursuing architecture licensure, and for ‘taking the stage’ literally and figuratively in her roles with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) through speaking engagements, committee appointments, and serving as an AIA awards judge.”
“I am honored to join Cushing Terrell’s senior leadership team and excited for what the future holds for our firm and the work we do,” Christensen said. “Throughout my career, I have had exceptional mentors, worked with incredible clients and team members, and taken every opportunity to give back to my community and the architecture profession. As we grow as a firm, I believe a similar focus on knowledge sharing, relationship building, and skills development through professional and volunteer opportunities will continue to strengthen our team and our design expertise.”
Christensen joined Cushing Terrell in 2006. Her architectural specialization is in the commercial sector with a focus on the design and construction of financial facilities. Additionally, she manages large healthcare design projects for some of the firm’s long-term clients. As principal in charge of the architecture service sector, Christensen oversees workload, staffing, and professional development for nearly 200 team members throughout the country. Additionally, she is a leader of the firm’s project management initiative and is responsible for developing new resources, coordinating training, implementing standards, and ensuring continuous process improvement.
Christensen has served as an NCARB Licensing Advisor for 12 years and most recently was appointed as AIA Montana’s State Government Network Representative to serve as an advocate for the architecture profession at the local and national level. She served as an alum on the Advisory Council for the Montana State University School of Architecture for 10 years and is active with the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools, connecting students of all ages with the architectural profession.
In 2017, Christensen was recognized with an AIA Young Architects Award, the organization’s top award for individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and make significant contributions to the profession early in their careers.
Christensen is a licensed architect in 11 U.S. states and three Canadian provinces.
“I am incredibly proud to welcome Shannon to the principal leadership level,” Matthews added. “Her contributions to our firm’s success and dedication to her profession make her a natural choice to help lead Cushing Terrell’s overall strategy and direction.”
Learn more about Cushing Terrell’s architecture service sector.
About Cushing Terrell
Cushing Terrell was founded in 1938 on the belief that integrating architecture, engineering, and design opens the doors for deepened relationships and enhanced creativity. This foundation continues to define the firm and its multidisciplinary team today. Driven by empathy, the team works to design systems and spaces that help people live their best lives and enjoy healthy, sustainable built environments. With more than 425 team members spanning 30-plus disciplines and expertise across the commercial, education, government, healthcare, infrastructure, residential, and retail markets, the firm has offices in Colorado, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, Montana, Texas, and Washington. For more information about Cushing Terrell, visit cushingterrell.com.
