BOSTON— Finegold Alexander Architects has announced four key leadership promotions, recognizing individuals whose contributions have helped shape the firm’s culture, design excellence, technological innovation, and client service.
The Boston-based architecture firm promoted Clair Colburn, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, LFA to Principal; Josephine Penta, AIA, LEED AP to Associate Principal; Özge Diler Himes, AIA to Senior Associate and Design Director; and Connor Byrne, AIA to Associate.
The promotions reflect Finegold Alexander’s ongoing commitment to developing leadership from within while recognizing the impact each individual has made on the firm’s growth and success.
Clair Colburn Named Principal
Colburn’s promotion to Principal recognizes her significant role in shaping the firm’s strategic direction and strengthening relationships with many of Finegold Alexander’s longstanding clients. Known for her thoughtful guidance and commitment to service, she has cultivated trusted partnerships that have led to enduring client relationships and repeat work across multiple sectors.
In addition to her project leadership, Colburn directs the firm’s mentoring program, helping foster professional growth and career development across all levels of the organization. She also contributes to the broader architectural profession through publications and speaking engagements.
“Clair’s leadership extends well beyond her project work,” said Regan Shields Ives, AIA, LEED AP, Principal at Finegold Alexander. “Her commitment to mentoring, client service, and advancing the profession exemplifies the qualities we value most in our Principals. She has become a trusted advisor to our clients and an invaluable leader within our firm.”
Josephine Penta Promoted to Associate Principal
Penta has been instrumental in advancing the firm’s technology and project delivery capabilities. She led the development and implementation of Finegold Alexander’s Building Information Modeling (BIM) platform and expanded the firm’s computational design expertise, helping establish innovative workflows that enhance efficiency and project quality.
Beyond her technical leadership, Penta plays a key role in staff development through onboarding and BIM training initiatives. She is also actively involved with Professional Women in Construction (PWC) and maintains strong relationships with many of the firm’s key clients.
“Josephine has had a tremendous impact on our practice,” said Christopher Lane, AIA, Principal at Finegold Alexander Architects. “Her leadership in advancing our BIM and computational design capabilities, coupled with her dedication to mentoring staff, has helped strengthen both our project delivery and firm culture. She is a trusted resource for everyone at the firm and an important driver of our continued growth and innovation.”
Özge Diler Himes Elevated to Senior Associate and Design Director
As Senior Associate and Design Director, Diler Himes is recognized for her leadership in advancing design excellence across the firm. She played a central role in developing Finegold Alexander’s design framework tool, helping establish a unified design philosophy and process that guides projects across all sectors.
She has also strengthened the firm’s creative and educational culture through initiatives such as Design Digest and the creation of FA Academy, a professional development program that provides ongoing learning opportunities for staff.
In addition to her internal leadership, Diler Himes has helped expand the firm’s presence in both Boston and Philadelphia through business development efforts and remains active in industry organizations, including the Urban Land Institute.
“Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring Ozge and watching her grow into an exceptional design leader,” said Tony Hsiao, AIA, LEED AP, Principal and Design Lead at Finegold Alexander Architects. “Together, we have worked to strengthen the firm’s design ethos and create a culture where design excellence, curiosity, and collaboration can thrive. This promotion recognizes her significant contributions, including advancing our design tool capabilities and helping shape the framework that guides our work across all sectors.”
Connor Byrne Promoted to Associate
Byrne’s promotion recognizes his technical expertise, collaborative approach, and commitment to supporting project teams throughout the firm. As a key member of Finegold Alexander’s Production Team, he has contributed to improving the quality and consistency of project documentation while mentoring colleagues in construction detailing and BIM implementation.
His work on projects such as the Gladstone Elementary School in Cranston, Rhode Island, has helped build strong relationships with clients and project partners, earning him a reputation for professionalism, responsiveness, and attention to detail.
“Connor’s dedication to quality, teamwork, and client service makes him an excellent addition to our group of Associates,” said Ellen Anselone, AIA, LEED, Principal and Vice President of Finegold Alexander. “He is always willing to go the extra mile for his colleagues and our clients, and his contributions have had a meaningful impact across the firm.”
