FGM Architects (FGMA) is pleased to announce the promotion of 12 new Vice Presidents this year who have demonstrated their commitment to advancing FGMA’s mission and values. These leaders are passionate about solving design challenges, providing unparalleled service to communities across the country and nurturing team wisdom and excellence. They bring an uncompromising level of integrity to every opportunity and actively invest in the future of the firm.
“Our Vice Presidents exemplify exceptional leadership through their design and technical expertise, driving our firm towards achieving significant business goals,” said FGMA President Tim Kwiatkowski. “They are all committed to nurturing growth, mentoring others and consistently embodying our core values. We are truly grateful for their invaluable contributions to the firm.”
The following employees have been appointed Vice Presidents:
Rich DePalma Austin, TX
Based in Austin, Rich DePalma joined FGMA in 2020 as a Principal and focuses on business development throughout Texas. As a former consultant with Strategic Partnerships, Inc., Rich also has experience with public and alternative financing. He uses his strong Central Texas network and deep knowledge to help public entities maximize services and funding when needed. Rich has a long history in both education and parks & recreation. He currently serves on the Barton Springs Conservancy Board of Directors and the Advisory Councils for Explore Austin and TreeFolks.
Mike Elliott, AIA, NCARB Oak Brook, IL
Mike Elliott is a Principal with FGMA focused on the Municipal practice area. Mike was with FGMA from 1999 - 2004 and rejoined the firm in 2023. Throughout his 39+ year career, Mike’s work has focused in the governmental, education, health services and private sectors. He is a former President of AIA Illinois and AIA Northeast Illinois, a representative to the AIA National Strategic Council and a member of the AIA National Government Advocacy Committee.
Steve Hafer, AIA, LEED AP, NCARB Fort Worth, TX
A leader in PK-12 education facility design in Texas, Steve Hafer joined FGMA as a Principal in 2022. Based in FGMA’s Fort Worth office, Steve leverages his intuitive sense, leadership and relentless focus to anchor the firm’s expansion into North Texas while reinforcing continued growth throughout Central Texas. With over 35 years of experience in educational design, he has consistently delivered successful projects, earning a reputation for excellence and building strong client relationships.
Anna Harvey, AIA Oak Brook, IL
During her 24-year tenure at FGMA, Anna Harvey has built a reputation as a dependable, approachable leader in the PK-12 Education, Higher Education and Municipal practices. As a leader, she sets an example to newer architects through her actions, mentoring others and showing them how to collaborate, organize and guide teams effectively. As Chair of FGMA’s Professional Development Committee for a decade she supports the next generation of architects. Knowing she has made a difference to both her clients and her direct team brings meaning to her work.
Cory Kamholz, AIA, LEED AP Chicago, IL
Since joining FGMA in 2022 as Design Principal, Cory Kamholz has focused on Higher Education and Municipal projects. His unique background at several smaller firms cultivated his deep understanding of all aspects of the design process and serves to strengthen the firm’s growing portfolio. “Architecture is really a team sport,” says Cory. He is passionate about mentoring young architects. Recognized as an innovative problem-solver, he leads by respecting every team member's voice and values everyone’s contributions. He ensures everyone on his team takes ownership of their ideas while fostering a supportive, open environment. Cory’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to building community drive his projects and leadership style.
Kyle Kim, AIA Oak Brook, IL
Kyle Kim has been with FGMA since 2009 and balances his time between the PK-12 Education and Higher Education practice areas. He brings a deep commitment not only to the technical development of projects, but to client-focused leadership as well. Recognized for his reliability and humility, Kyle engages with his team at their level and embraces the distinctive challenges of working in a multigenerational workforce. He leads by example, demonstrating integrity, collaboration and a client-first perspective. As he puts it, “Architecture is not about your ego; it is not about doing fancy things. It's about people.”
Andy Leja, AIA, LEED AP BD+C Oak Brook, IL
Since joining FGMA in 2012, Andy Leja has focused primarily on PK-12 Education projects, offering over 20 years of experience to the firm. Known for his accessible approach of "training, trusting and letting them lead," Andy is enthusiastic about mentoring the next generation of architects and passing the torch in knowledge and leadership. He actively participates in FGMA’s Technical Advisory Group Committee, supporting technical development and innovation. Andy enjoys sharing his passion for architecture and is inspired by helping others achieve their goals and seeing the positive impacts of our projects on the students, staff, and the community.
Bryan Mason, AIA O'Fallon, IL
Having worked at FGMA earlier in his career from 2007 - 2017, Bryan Mason rejoined the firm as a Principal in 2023. With over 30 years of experience spanning a broad range of practices, Mason brings a unique perspective in design. Known for his calm demeanor and thoughtful leadership, Bryan believes in giving his team the tools they need to solve problems and develop individually. He takes pride in mentoring younger staff, guiding them with integrity and fostering their potential to grow. He is energized by fresh ideas and is committed to honest, open communication. Bryan's dedication to community is evident outside of the office as well, having coached youth baseball and volunteered in programs supporting education and outreach.
Jaime Palomo, AIA Austin, TX
Jaime Palomo joined FGMA in 2022 and was appointed Managing Director of the firm’s Texas region practice in 2024. With over 35 years of design and leadership experience, Jaime leads the firm’s Municipal practice in Central Texas, playing a key role in team leadership, business development, strategic planning and operations. Drawing on his years of innovative design experience and changemaking leadership in the Texas architectural community, he utilizes his knowledge of local markets to spearhead growth. An active member of AIA Austin, Jaime has also served as Austin Director for the Texas Society of Architects.
Emily Spindler, AIA, NCARB St. Louis, MO
Emily Spindler has been with FGMA since 2012 and leads the St. Louis region’s pk-12 education practice. Guided by the belief that "our people are our community," Emily encourages a collaborative, supportive environment where her team can grow and thrive. She is passionate about understanding what drives her colleagues, helping them harness their unique strengths and fuel their passions. Emily is proud to support a culture where shared success and both professional and personal development are at the forefront of every project.
Alyson Sternquist, AIA, LEED AP BD+C Oak Brook, IL
Alyson Sternquist brings over 20 years of experience to the PK-12 Education practice and has been with FGMA since 2020. Known for her servant leadership, Alyson is dedicated to building longstanding relationships based on trust and ensuring that both her clients and teams are well-supported. Alyson spearheaded the firm’s current mentorship program, fostering growth and development for the next generation of industry leaders. Her passion and drive are mirrored in her community involvement, as she serves on her local plan commission and as a member of District 230 High School’s Building and Finance Committee.
Elizabeth Wojtowicz, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Elizabeth Wojtowicz, FGMA’s Chief People Officer since 2021, has led initiatives focused on talent management and organizational culture as well as recruitment, training and development. In addition to enhancing the overall employee experience, Elizabeth drives the firm’s success forward by contributing her expertise to the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee and the Professional Development Committee. From executive level employees to emerging professionals, her sincere passion to improve the workplace is unmistakable, and her positive impact is recognized firmwide.