Wise of SWBR retires after 36 years

ROCHESTER, NY SWBR principal and architect, Phil Wise, AIA, LEED AP retired on May 31st after 36 years of work with the firm.

Throughout his career, Wise has managed a variety of notable projects, with a particular dedication and expertise for learning environments. He’s been devoted to understanding how students learn and creating environments that enable them to succeed, and has passed that vision and passion onto his talented team. His award-winning portfolio includes projects for Cornell University, SUNY College at Brockport, Syracuse University, Auburn Enlarged City School District, Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women, Victor Central School District, and Rochester School for the Deaf, among many others.

“Phil’s commitment to SWBR has been crucial to the success of the firm,” said president Tom Gears, AIA. “He has built important client relationships, been a mentor for his team, and help put our firm at the forefront of educational design. We’re grateful to Phil, not just for all his years of service, but also for his dedication to ensuring that his retirement will be a smooth transition for the firm.”

When asked what he considers his biggest accomplishments at SWBR, he cites the long-term client relationships he’s built and maintained, understanding how architecture can change how people feel and act in their environment, and having the opportunity to bring individual talents together to form teams that accomplish goals otherwise unattainable.  “Architecture is a team activity,” says Wise, “It takes many people to create a successful project.”

Wise joined SWBR in 1982 after stints at Barkstrom and LaCroix and Kodak.  He was promoted to Principal in 1991 after serving as a Project Manager and Senior Associate.   He’s also served on the Board of Directors of Valley Manor and Rochester School for the Deaf, on the Facility Committees of Community Place, and on the Historic Architecture Commission of the Town of Perinton.  He graduated from Ohio State University in 1975.

Besides “not working,” his plan for retirement includes spending time with his wife and family, learning to do new things he’s never had time for, and having fun.