Lori James

In 15 years with SmithGroup, Lori has quickly leapt into leadership roles within the interior design group and as project manager. She now leads multi-million-dollar initiatives for corporate, academic and healthcare clients. "In this career, we are constantly growing and learning," she marvels. "I draw inspiration from people, perspectives and insights that I may have not been exposed to in the past. People inspire people." Lori also has led the firm's Exploring Post - an annual 10-month program that introduces students to architecture and engineering - and devotes time to several other community outreach programs, including an annual crafting event for hundreds of children through the Boys & Girls Club of America. Art and energy just seem to weave through her life. She is an avid and accomplished knitter (ask about her felt clogs) and her yoga practice has recently evolved to include aerial yoga using a fabric trapeze.