GFF Promotions Announcement —

Allison Hubbard’s Leadership Continues as GFF’s President
When GFF transitioned to its current generation of Principals, Allison Hubbard stepped into the role of COO, bringing decades of leadership and a deep understanding of how our firm operates. Since joining GFF in 1997, she has shaped both our HR and accounting teams, ultimately leading the firm’s financial and operational strategy. Much like the founders of our practice, she approaches GFF as a designed system, constantly thinking about how to refine and strengthen our culture, resources, and processes.
With a rare ability to bridge finance, operations, and human resources, Allison has been instrumental in ensuring GFF thrives—not just as a design firm, but as a well-run business. Her exceptional leadership and strategic mindset made it clear that she was the right choice to serve as President. We are excited for her continued stewardship as GFF’s technical and design teams push boundaries and reach new heights.
President / Principal + Chief Operations Officer
“We love celebrating the growth of our team, and this year was especially significant with several key promotions—including the elevation of Allison as GFF’s President. Since our firm’s leadership transition in 2020, Allison has overseen the business side of our practice and dedicated herself to building our firm’s culture. This promotion is a well-earned recognition of her leadership and impact.”
— Evan Beattie, Chairman + CEO
Stepping Forward on
the Path to Principal
At GFF, we recognize leadership through both operational and non-operational titles. Our operational titles—ranging from Professional to Coordinator, Senior Coordinator, Leader, Senior Leader, and Director—reflect an individual’s role in the firm’s daily operations. Separately, our non-operational titles—Associate, Associate Principal, and Principal—are tied to a defined path for those aspiring to firm leadership. This structured progression aligns with our core value of “Opportunity for All,” ensuring that employees who demonstrate the traits of a future Principal have a clear, transparent roadmap to achieving that goal.
“Advancing to Associate and Associate Principal is a milestone that reflects leadership and a deep commitment to GFF’s growth. Mike, Beth, Gavin, and Sarah have each demonstrated the qualities that define our firm’s next generation of leaders, and we’re excited to see the continued impact they will make.”
— Allison Hubbard, President + COO
Mike Lehr Named Associate Principal
As Studio Director of our Faith & Community studio, Mike Lehr has built strong relationships with our wonderful faith and community clients, guiding projects that reflect their values and missions. His leadership, entrepreneurial mindset, and ability to cultivate lasting partnerships have led to new opportunities for GFF. This well-earned promotion to Associate Principal recognizes his impact on both our firm and the communities we serve.
Associate Principal + Studio Director
GFF Adds Three New Associates
Joining the ranks of GFF’s leadership pipeline, Beth Schmidt, Gavin Newman, and Sarah Hamzeh have been promoted to Associate, marking an important milestone on the path to Principal. Their expertise and leadership continue to shape our firm—Beth through design, Gavin in planning, and Sarah as a key team member in our Fort Worth office. Each has demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit, a commitment to excellence, and a unique skill set that strengthens GFF’s future.
Associate + Senior Design Leader
Associate + Planning Leader
Associate + Project Leader
Forging Their Own Path: New Directors & Specialized Roles
New Directors
Todd Toupal and Garrett Barker have been elevated to Directors, stepping into roles that reflect their expertise and impact. As Technical Director, Todd brings a wealth of experience in documentation and detailing, shaping some of GFF’s most refined projects—including the nearly finished 23Springs. His precision and technical leadership have set a high standard across the firm. Garrett Barker, now Studio Director of our Civic & Cultural studio, has long been a trusted leader and mentor. His ability to guide teams and steward client resources ensures that every project is thoughtful, well-executed, and a strong investment in the communities we serve.
Associate + Technical Director
Associate + Studio Director
Specialized Roles
Ricardo Montoya is already a key leader at GFF, and we’re fine-tuning his title to Technical Principal to reflect his specialized role within the firm. His deep technical expertise is an invaluable resource for both our teams and the success of our projects. Taylor Wade, a member of Ricardo’s Quality Management Team, is stepping into the role of Senior Design Technology Coordinator, reinforcing her impact on design technology across the firm. Meanwhile, Andrew Adkison has long been a creative powerhouse—whether in design, visualization, or photography. Now, as GFF’s leading expert on AI technology and policy, he’s helping shape the future of how we work.
Technical Principal
Associate Principal + Director of AI
Senior Design Technology Coordinator
Recognizing Leadership at Every Level of our Firm
Senior Leaders
Senior Leaders play a critical role in guiding complex projects, managing multiple assignments, and elevating the quality of our work. These individuals have consistently demonstrated expertise in their practice areas, contributed to the firm’s knowledge and technical excellence, and built strong relationships with clients. Their leadership not only strengthens our teams but also positions them as future Directors within the firm.
Associate + Senior Design Leader
Associate + Senior Creative Leader
Senior Design Leader
Senior Project Leader
Leaders
Leaders have demonstrated the ability to independently manage projects or take ownership of key areas within our practice. Their sustained expertise, problem-solving skills, and commitment to excellence make them invaluable contributors to our firm’s success, reinforcing the strength and depth of our team.
Associate + Project Leader
Project Leader
Senior Coordinators
Our Senior Coordinators have demonstrated the ability to manage small projects or key portions of larger ones with independence and expertise. Their growth reflects a deepening level of responsibility, technical skill, and project leadership, reinforcing GFF’s commitment to developing talent from within.
Senior Project Coordinator
Senior Project Coordinator
Coordinators
Coordinators have demonstrated the ability to work independently and contribute meaningfully to projects on a regular basis. This milestone reflects their growing expertise and confidence in managing tasks, problem-solving, and supporting teams effectively. Their development strengthens our firm and ensures continued project success.
Marketing Coordinator
Interior Design Coordinator
IT Coordinator