Shannon Swift, AIA, received the 2024 AIA Iowa Young Architect Award at the 2024 AIA Iowa Awards Celebration. This award is presented annually to an architect who demonstrates exceptional leadership skills and contributes significantly to the profession. Shannon is recognized for her impact on the INVISION team, the healthcare and architecture industry, and the Des Moines community.
Pro Bono Committee
At INVISION, Shannon stands out as a leader in her senior associate role by consistently exceeding her core responsibilities. She co-leads the Photography and Awards Committees and played a pivotal role in establishing a formal process for pro bono design services, creating the Community Impact Committee. Currently, Shannon is applying her evidence-based design approach to spearhead the development of an internal benchmarking database. This initiative will enable future projects to leverage past data, improving client decision-making.
“Since joining our firm in 2016, Shannon has stood out as an exceptional team member. Over the years, she has evolved from an eager-to-learn intern to an outstanding architect whose leadership consistently contributes to the firm’s success,” said Becky Hansel, partner at INVISION.
MercyOne Richard Deming Cancer Center
As a leader on INVISION’s healthcare team, Shannon advances healthcare design through an unwavering drive to provide holistic designs centered around function, wellness, and sustainability. She draws inspiration from her mother, a nurse, to create spaces that align with the needs and demands of those working tirelessly to heal others.
Her diverse portfolio ranges from master planning and programming to overseeing renovations of operating rooms, cath labs, and entire floors. She has extensive experience working with critical access hospitals and has contributed to over 35 projects for MercyOne Healthcare Systems.
Monroe County Hospital & Clinics
One of Shannon’s most remarkable strengths is her ability to build and nurture meaningful client relationships. She brings a positive attitude to the design and construction process, gaining recognition from clients and contractors as a hands-on and responsive leader who seeks to understand, relate, and speak to any concerns.
Veronica R Fuhs, MHA, CEO of Monroe County Hospital & Clinics said, “Shannon values the relationships she has with people and is always willing to work together to find optimal solutions. Shannon understands her clients’ perspectives and works to be sure that the project continues to support common goals. We continue to be amazed at Shannon’s ability to work alongside our hospital and clinic staff, truly listening to their challenges and providing solutions that are affordable and sustainable to make our facility a great place to receive care.”
Advocacy Work
Shannon advocates for the architecture profession through her volunteer work. She has played a key role on the AIA Iowa Convention Committee, helping plan the annual fall convention. Since 2017, Shannon has been a member of Iowa Women in Architecture, serving in various board positions. She also leads workshops at Construction Camp for Girls to break gender barriers and inspire young women to enter construction careers. Her ongoing involvement with Iowa State University includes mentoring students and participating as a panelist for the professional practice course. Additionally, Shannon has worked with high school students interested in careers related to architecture, construction, and engineering as an ACE mentor.
Volunteer Initiatives
Her volunteer work extends to her community. As a 2021 LEAD DSM Community Connect Program graduate, Shannon has valuable resources and knowledge that deepen her community engagement skills. She actively supports the YMCA Supportive Housing Campus, from cooking meals and participating in holiday drives to joining the board and raising funds for operational expenses. She has also played a crucial role at WeCare and is instrumental in the annual holiday crafts celebration, creating joyful memories with elementary and middle school students.
INVISION is incredibly proud of Shannon for receiving the 2024 AIA Iowa Young Architect Award. Shannon’s achievements, contributions, and unwavering dedication exemplify the qualities this award represents. Her recognition is a testament to her passion, expertise, and the positive influence she has on both her peers and the broader community. Congratulations, Shannon, on this well-deserved honor!