Grand Opening: Washtenaw County 14A Judicial District Court

Grand opening ceremonies are always special because they allow everyone involved in the project to take a step back and appreciate what they have accomplished. On Friday, July 16th, the Washtenaw County 14A Judicial District Court opened its doors in a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by The Honorable Kirk W. Tabbey- Chief Judge, the Honorable Richard E. Conlin- Chief Judge Pro Tempore and the Honorable J. Cedric Simpson.

The team of TowerPinkster, HOK and Clark Construction has been diligently working on the project over the past two years. The addition features three new courtrooms, judge’s chambers and a secure, public entrance with a single point of access to the courts, sheriff’s administration and jail. The team also designed an expansion to the existing jail, which was completed in June. The new facility provides faster and more efficient service while offering a safe and secure environment for the staff and public.

Congratulations to the entire team for completing another successful project!

A Passion for Mentoring

- Tom Mathison, FAIA
Principal, Higher Education Focus Group Leader

Many of us are passionate about sharing our knowledge with emerging professionals. When I founded the AIA Michigan Mentoring Network, it was and continues to be, an effort comprised of architect mentors who voluntarily meet with architecture and design students. Real-world experiences and life lessons are shared, friendships developed and guidance is offered. The network is free to both students and mentors, and is open to all architecture students at accredited programs in Michigan.

Starting with 100 students in 1999, the network has grown to an average of over 200 each year from the four accredited architecture programs in Michigan (University of Michigan, Lawrence Technological University, University of Detroit Mercy, and Andrews University). AIA Michigan partners with each university and respective AIA chapter to offer this unique opportunity. The network has quickly grown to include students and mentors from throughout Michigan and across the U.S and abroad.

Recently, the May 7, 2010 issue of AIArchitect featured the AIA Michigan Mentoring Network - to read the article, click here.

The network has been picked up by other AIA components in the U.S., and it is included among AIA’s “Best Practices” for mentoring. Recruiting for mentors and students starts soon for the 2010 – 2011 academic year. Contact me at tmathison@towerpinkster.com for more information.

Another LEED Silver!

Congratulations, to the TowerPinkster team for achieving LEED Silver on the West Shore Community College Schoenherr Campus Student Center!

The project features strategic use of daylighting, high-recycled content and low-VOC materials, optimized energy performance and individual control of heating, cooling and lighting.

For project images, click here!

Inspired Learning Environments

“We need to first ask the question...'what is a classroom?' If we challenge our traditional notions of education we will be better able to create spaces, environments and opportunities for learning that inspire our students and support our teachers. We do not have time to stay stuck in the past. Our children are counting on us.”

Rebecca Meggs, IIDA, CSI, CDT, LEED AP
Senior Interior Designer

Most of us have heard the recent - and not so recent - research surrounding student learning styles and teaching models. What if you could take that knowledge and turn your school into a place that inspires, educates, and responds to the individual needs of each student? Inspired, intentional design leads to inspired, intentional learning.

Click here to read the full article, or view additional white papers on other topics at our website.

ACE Mentor Program

See a story just published about the ACE Mentor Program - one of the many important community initiatives TowerPinkster is involved with! The ACE Program (Architecture, Construction and Engineering) connects industry mentors to high school students interested in pursuing careers in the field.

Thanks to Shawn Parshall (Architectural Designer) and Michele Rossio (Architectural Project Coordinator), for being a part of this important program!

Click here to read more.

570 Volunteer Hours!

On any given day, you will find someone from TowerPinkster or TowerPinkster's extended family involved in a community event: from Big Brothers and Big Sisters to the American Cancer Society to ongoing Walk-a-thons and Bike-a-thons, to many more charitable events.

We are proud members of many national and local organizations including: Hospice of Michigan, United Way, Rotary and Boy Scouts to name just a few. We are also proud to support various educational institutions by sponsoring annual scholarships and grants as well as donations to local libraries and other public service organizations.

Our firm is dedicated to supporting the communities that support us! We also take a hands-on approach to volunteerism that brings us closer to our communities, positively affecting our understanding and ability to serve West Michigan.

In fact, each TowerPinkster employee is given a full day every year to donate time to the organization of their choice. This program resulted in 570 volunteer hours in 2009, totaling $17,500 of time paid by TowerPinkster!