HMC Architects’ John Nichols, AIA, Pre-K–12 Education Practice Leader, was recently elected vice president of the Council of Educational Facility Planners International (CEFPI) Southwest Region. According to John, “The current environment in education is challenging from an economic, academic, political and leadership perspective. Now—more than ever before—the process and outcome of solid and comprehensive planning is critical. I am humbled by the endorsement of the Southwest Region’s support for me as vice president, and I commit my 30 years of educational planning/design experience along with HMC’s resources to support CEFPI’s mission and vision during my tenure.”

CEFPI is the primary advocate and resource for effective educational facilities. They serve those who use, plan, design, construct, maintain, equip and operate educational facilities. The association serves its members through three key strategic areas: advocacy and education of the general public, including policymakers, on the efficacy of school design and student outcomes; training and professional development of members and others through current program, workshops, seminars and conferences promoting best practices in creative school planning; and research and dissemination of information regarding the linkage between the educational facility, its design, and student success.