MEET GRACE! 💡

Q.  How long have you been at RTA?

A. I have been with RTA for a little over a year. I started in June of 2024 after finishing my MLA at the University of Tennessee Knoxville.

Q. Are there any new ideas in education that are inspiring your approach to design lately?

A. This spring, our site team had the opportunity to learn from a playground design expert. One of my key takeaways was the critical role play serves in supporting both mental and physical development, enhancing motor skills, fostering creativity, and building social connections. I also learned that play is not limited by age; it’s a lifelong need that can be supported through thoughtful, inclusive design. These insights have inspired me to be more intentional about incorporating opportunities for play, movement, and socializing into outdoor spaces that aren’t necessarily playgrounds.

Q. What do you think are the key qualities for success in your position?

A. As someone early in their career, I’ve found that asking thoughtful questions is incredibly valuable—not just to understand how to complete tasks, but to uncover why things are done a certain way. This deeper understanding helps build stronger skills and better judgment. I also make it a point to ask different people, since everyone brings unique experiences and perspectives that can offer fresh insights and broaden your learning.

Q. What is it about RTA’s culture that you enjoy?

A. RTA has a very welcoming and supportive atmosphere. Whenever I need help with something, there’s almost always someone willing to take a moment to explain or point me in the right direction. That openness and willingness to collaborate make RTA an ideal environment for interdisciplinary work.

Q. Beyond your professional life, what do you like to spend your time doing?

A. Outside of work, I love to read, cook, hike, and I am a crafty gal. I recently started learning how to sew and have been inspired by the many women in my family that are amazing sewists. I am currently working on finishing a quilt that my grandmother started back in the 80s.

Q. What is a skill or talent you have always wanted to learn but have not had the chance to yet?

A. As I have been acquiring different crafty hobbies, the one skill that still intimidates me is knitting. One day I hope to start figuring it out but for now I’ll stick to what I know.

Q. What is one thing you cannot live without?

A. I couldn’t imagine life without my cat, Billy. I adopted him last fall from the humane society. He is my first cat, and I love him more than anything. He is always a few feet away from me, and I couldn’t imagine life without him.

Q. If you were a contestant on a game show, which one would it be and why?

A. I would like to be on Taskmaster, which is a show where comedians participate in several very random tasks to earn points. The tasks are often ridiculous, forcing the contestants to be creative, and the result is very funny. I really enjoy that the show isn’t necessarily about winning, it’s more about having fun.

CO-WORKERS DESCRIBE GRACE AS….

Joyful • Thoughtful • Determined • Compassionate

I love working with Grace, because she approaches the world with a contemplative curiosity. She is always eager to learn, grow, and challenge herself to take on new tasks. That courage is contagious and helps fuel my own curiosity and desire to grow. – Kevin McCalla

I love working with Grace because she lights up the room, brings positive energy into the day and is always wonderful to have a chat with. She is visibly passionate and excited about design and puts a lot of energy and dedication into anything she pursues.  –Amber Blankenship