Marie Ruisard, LEED AP BD+C

Marie Ruisard is a young professional and student with academic interests ranging from design to linguistics, and from sustainability to ergonomics. While currently working towards a degree in architectural design, she strives to involve herself in a variety of pursuits outside of her formal education. Recent endeavors have included literary publication, independent travel, teaching assistance, and social dancing. In December 2016 she earned her LEED AP BD+C accreditation, and continues to pursue knowledge and experience in sustainable design and urban development. Within Drexel University's unique 2+4 program, students are given the opportunity to work full-time while attending classes toward their degree in the evening. While exhausting, the dual program offers a degree of real-world experience generally not achieved until after graduation, and learning is achieved in both the educational and employment environment. Thanks to the duality of her education, Marie takes every opportunity she can to engage in education outside the classroom. In 2013, she took her first job at an architecture firm as a surveyer and draftsperson, as well as working as a summer teaching assistant for Drexel University's Discovering Architecture program, for interested high school seniors. The following Fall, she interned with Drexel's literary publication, Painted Bride Quarterly, as a student writer and submission reviewer. In Summer 2014 and Spring 2015, she had the opportunity to leave on independent travels abroad, expanding her cultural awareness and learning from cities and buildings overseas. In her current position at Voith and Mactavish Architects, Marie has gained experience in detailing, project management, construction administration, and historic preservation. Her primary project at the moment is the adaptive reuse of a Virginia high school's historic gymnasium, which has her frequently traveling and encountering the trials and opportunities of existing buildings under renovation. Marie strives to combine supplemental experience with practical learning, any way she can.