So wrote Canon Alfred Archambeault in memory of Mother Joseph, Sister of Providence who spent her years in the Pacific Northwest as a pioneer of serving people, healthcare, and construction. For as long as I’ve wanted to be an architect she has been my hero. A female builder and designer, and the first person responsible for much of home’s history. I often find myself returning to her. Her grace, stubbornness, and love for her work and the people it serves.

As I grow as a designer, I also grow in leading with vulnerability. To recognize that it’s not always on me to figure out the answer, but to empower the people who can collaborate on the best one.

I keep a Hidden Brick on my desk to remind me of this. I’m just one of many that make a building strong. Most of our longest standing structures are made of these hand formed masonry blocks, originally an idea of Mother Joseph who convinced a local ‘hard worker’ to start a brick making business.

I believe my path forward as an architect for health continues to be one focused on community based work, and recognizing that the most important thing we can do is to look after each other. Mother Joseph instilled the sense of designing for humanity in me, and I’m honored to keep her mission going strong.