Schools of the future

Meet the judges

The 2025 Schools of the Future Award Panel of Judges was made up of some leading designers in the Education space. These individuals are all making such amazing impacts on the students, faculty and community's that they are involved in designing education spaces for.

Mark Beebe

Principal | Midwest PK12 Education Market Leader at Ratio

"Every student learns differently, so schools must support today’s curriculum while meeting each learner where they are."

After 11+ years growing Beebe Design (formerly Lancer + Beebe) into a nationally recognized firm for innovative learning environments, Mark Beebe joins Ratio as Principal and Midwest PK12 Education Market Leader. This partnership reflects a shared vision for design excellence and strategic growth in education.

With over 24 years of experience, Mark is passionate about the power of PK12 design to positively impact students, educators, families, and communities. He finds inspiration in the curiosity of students and the transformation that happens when teachers are supported by thoughtful, functional spaces. His approach blends comfort with purpose, creating environments that welcome and inspire.

A hands-on leader known for his optimism and empathy, Mark listens deeply to clients’ goals, encouraging them to dream bigger for their learning spaces. When not designing, he enjoys building projects and adventuring with his family—often on a catamaran in the Caribbean.

Dennise De Le Rosa

Interior Architect, Associate Principal at Ruhnau Clarke Architects 

Dennise is committed to cultivating space that evokes joy, approaching projects individually and holistically. With over 15 years of design experience with an emphasis in educational architecture, she has proven success in translating ideas into re-imagined spaces that foster well-being and exploration. Having lived in myriad design cities across the country, she has a unique perspective to design that lends itself to a variety of styles resulting in bright/ timeless spaces that have been recognized by American School and University, Architectural Record, and the Coalition for Adequate School Housing. Her design methodology involves developing a story rooted in a project's location, history and end users. Dennise is passionate about the creative process and believes great design is reflective of place- to not only be seen but also felt.  

Lance Whitehead

K12 Studio Leader, Managing Principal at Lavallee | Brensinger Architects

With 25 years of experience, Lance is a highly-skilled Managing Principal and leader of Lavalee Brensinger Architect’s K12 design studio. He is passionate about education and knowledgeable of all facets of school construction. Lance has led a wide array of projects across multiple states, and has developed expertise in specific areas including Career Technical Education, Long Range Master planning, Designing for Neurodiversity, and Community Engagement. Lance is exceptionally skilled at presenting and engaging communities and end-users in the design process. Lance’s final solutions are uniquely creative, deeply thoughtful, and reflective of each client’s vision for their school.

Holly Hodge

Elon University, Director of Interior Design 

With 25 years in commercial interior design, Holly specializes in creating innovative, student-centered spaces in higher education. Her work transforms classrooms, libraries, and student centers into dynamic environments that promote collaboration, engagement, and academic success.

Holly blends sustainability, technology, and modern aesthetics with a deep understanding of educational needs. Passionate about inspiring learning and community, she stays ahead of design trends and applies evidence-based principles to every project—shaping the future of higher education through thoughtful, functional design.