03/28/2025

KCBA Architects is thrilled to announce the promotion of several longtime staff members.

Shannon Abraham, RA, LEED Green Associate, has been named an Associate. After joining the firm upon graduation from Penn State in 2018, Shannon served as a design professional and project coordinator on a wide range of new construction and renovation projects where she demonstrated a keen attention to detail and talent for communication and connecting with other team members. Over the years, she has continually taken on more responsibilities and risen to her current role managing major projects in the K-12 and institutional sectors. In this new capacity, she will engage directly with the firm’s leadership group with an initial focus on enhancing project management practices and the firm’s charitable and community endeavors.

Stacy L. Thomas, RA, NCARB, LEED AP BD + C joined KCBA in 2017 after relocating from New Orleans where she worked for a regional architectural practice managing diverse projects in the higher education and governmental markets. At KCBA, she quickly established herself as a trusted and talented project manager directing many of the firm’s largest signature projects and applying a tremendous depth of knowledge in the technical aspects of the profession such as codes and standards, building materials and systems, and construction practices. As Studio Director, she will take an expanded role in firm operations, staffing allocation, and advancing project management standards while retaining a robust roster of projects.

Ryan Orr, AIA, SARA, NCARB began with KCBA as a summer intern while studying at Penn State and joined the firm after graduation in 2013. From modest beginnings building physical models and organizing shelves, Ryan advanced steadily to his current role as senior designer and has now been named a firm Principal. Throughout his career, Ryan has contributed to all facets of KCBA’s operations and continuously demonstrated his commitment to enhancing the firm’s services, culture, and the experience of his co-workers. As Principal, he will focus on elevating the firm’s design output, strategic growth and business development, and implementation of new architectural and administration tools and technologies.   

KCBA Principal Michael Kelly states, “We are so happy to announce the promotions of Shannon, Stacy, and Ryan and look forward to their increased roles in shaping the future of the company. I extend my deep appreciation and congratulate each of them on this well-deserved honor.”