Sadie Thurston

As a first-generation college graduate and Architectural Designer in Denver, I am passionate about advancing the profession through leadership, sustainability, and community building. After earning my M.Arch from the University of Colorado Denver in 2022, I have dedicated three years to meaningful project work while actively serving on my firm’s sustainability committee, helping achieve Green Globes certification for three projects as part of our commitment to the 2030 Challenge. Recognizing the need for an emerging professional group in Denver, I co-founded Framework in 2023—an independent organization that has successfully hosted eight events for over 300 emerging professionals. Our programming ranges from networking happy hours to structured enrichment events covering professional development topics like LinkedIn networking, personal finance, and co-sponsored event with Colorado's NOMA chapter featuring diverse industry voices. Currently pursuing architectural licensure with five exams completed and inspiring colleagues to begin their own exam journeys, I combine professional growth with community impact. I recently finished AIA Colorado's ASCEND program and participated in the Good Future Design Alliance's sustainability challenge for a personal project. I am committed to continuous learning while contributing to a more connected and sustainable architectural community in Colorado.