2026 Fall Promotions

As we head into fall, we’re turning up the applause with a new round of well-earned promotions to celebrate.

David Wahl, AIA – Senior Principal 

Since joining the firm in 2012, David has been a driving force behind some of the firm’s most impactful long-term developments, such as Seraph, Reunion Square, and Parc View at Commonwealth. His leadership, strategic vision, and commitment have proven his ability to guide complex projects, making him a trusted leader for clients, teams, and communities alike. Outside the office, you can often find him behind the lens, capturing birds, flowers, and the night sky, a testament to the same curiosity and attention to detail he brings to his work every day. 

Starr Ashcraft, AIA – Principal  

Over her 15-plus years at Hickok Cole, Starr has played a key role in shaping a diverse portfolio of urban mixed-use and multifamily projects, including St. Albans Lofts, Wellsmith Apartments, and Paxton Apartments. Her commitment to design innovation and thoughtful execution has helped create distinctive places that enrich the built environment. Starr brings a full-service approach to every project, serving as a trusted partner to clients, mentoring emerging talent, and ensuring design intent is thoughtfully carried through every phase of the work.

We are pleased to recognize our four new Associate Principals: Experiential Design Director Rebecca Kelly, Design Director Tammy Lippman, Assoc. IIDA, Jason Ovalle, LEED AP, and Gregory Woodruff, AIA.

This year marks two significant milestones: Tammy, an Interior Design leader, celebrates her 20th anniversary with the firm, while Rebecca, based in our Richmond, VA studio and part of Hickok Cole Creative, celebrates her 10th! Through their strategic insight, creativity, and leadership, they have helped create projects that are memorable, meaningful, and rooted in the communities they serve. Their contributions have enriched our work, strengthened client relationships, and helped shape our firm’s culture.

Jason and Gregory, who both focus on mixed-use and multifamily architecture projects, have become trusted resources in guiding projects through complex entitlement and approval processes, leveraging their deep expertise in site plan approvals and jurisdictional coordination to help successfully navigate critical project milestones.

We also congratulate our two new Senior Associates: Tannaz Alavi, Assoc. AIA, LEED Green Associate, and Taylor Clark, AIA. 

“Recognizing and supporting the growth of our people is one of the most rewarding parts of building a strong firm,” said Mark Ramirez, Managing Director and Senior Principal. “These promotions celebrate individuals who have consistently demonstrated leadership, expertise, and a commitment to our clients, projects, and teams. They represent the future of Hickok Cole, and investing in their development is an investment in the continued strength of our culture, our practice, and our success.”

Please join us in congratulating these talented individuals!