Tallahassee, FL (February 20, 2025) – Architects Lewis + Whitlock (ALW) is proud to celebrate its 25th anniversary of delivering innovative, community-focused designs. Through thoughtful craftsmanship and a deep commitment to client satisfaction, ALW continues to elevate the built environment.
As part of this milestone, Principal Rodney Lewis, AIA, NCARB, announced today the promotion of three team members to principals at ALW. The new partners – Emily Ely, Matt Persinger, and Ryan Sheplak – have been instrumental in management, innovation, and growth of the firm. Their tenure at ALW will ensure continuity of firm culture and the excellent relationships our clients have come to expect. Rodney is welcoming these valued colleagues as the next generation of leadership at ALW following the retirement of partner and co-founder, Cam Whitlock, AIA, in December 2024.
The new partnership broadens and diversifies the firm’s leadership, building on the extensive portfolio of projects in higher education, banking, commercial offices, hospitality, recreation, and civic & municipal projects. Each partner brings their own expertise and knowledge to the leadership team.
Emily Ely, RID, is a licensed interior designer with 17 years of experience in commercial architecture and design and is recognized as a passionate leader and mentor. Emily’s human-centered and empathetic design approach fosters long-term relationships and a collective appreciation of the project’s value by all stakeholders. She consistently delivers beautifully crafted spaces founded on creative expression, function, and innovation.
Matt Persinger, AIA, has over 14 years of architectural experience and is a licensed, LEED-accredited architect. His thoughtful approach to projects allows him to skillfully provide detail-oriented guidance to the design team while responding to the unique needs of our clients. His project management experience and oversight of office operations position him for ownership and as a key leader in ALW’s continued growth and success.
Ryan Sheplak, AIA, is a creative visionary with over a decade of experience crafting spaces that inspire, harmonize, and elevate the human experience. He has a unique talent for storytelling through architecture that engages users on multiple levels. His experience with various projects, strong ethical principles, and continued guidance as a designer keep the firm on the cutting edge of the industry. Ryan’s creative direction will be an asset to the leadership team for years to come.
“I am excited to partner with Emily, Matt, and Ryan as Principals of ALW. Their leadership, creativity, and unwavering commitment to design excellence have been instrumental in shaping the firm’s success. As we look to the future, their vision and dedication will continue to strengthen our impact on the architectural landscape and the communities we serve.”
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About Architects Lewis + Whitlock
Architects Lewis + Whitlock (ALW) is an award-winning architecture, planning, and interior design studio based in Tallahassee, Florida. The firm’s business approach is based on the tenants of attention to detail, innovative project design, and client satisfaction. Founded in 2000, ALW showcases a diverse architectural portfolio of projects in higher education, hospitality, commercial offices, recreation, retail, multi-family and residential housing, banking, and civic and cultural work. Through research and discovery, we create environments that benefit people and their communities and advance the profession.
For more information, contact Kris McCaffrey, Director of Marketing at 850.942.1718, x 314 or by email at kmccaffrey@think3d.net. High-resolution headshots available upon request.
