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Design Firm Ayers Saint Gross Names Marina Carroll to Lead Position
June 9,
2026 by Karen Parrish in Business Strategy, Designer Weekly, Industry 
Award-winning design firm Ayers Saint Gross has named Marina Carroll as Principal and Interdisciplinary Practice Lead. Carroll brings more than 15 years of experience in architectural design, education-sector strategy, and organizational advisory work. In this newly created role, she will advance the architectural practice’s leadership, strategy, and performance. Her appointment reinforces the firm’s commitment to advancing interdisciplinary initiatives that integrate strategy, planning, and design, while strengthening its ability to support mission-driven institutions amid evolving sector needs.
Carroll previously served as the National Leader of the Education Sector at Architectus, one of Australia’s leading architecture practices. In that role, she advised higher education and K–12 institutions on strategic planning, campus transformation, emerging sector pressures, and long-term investment priorities. Carroll is a fellow at the Urban Design Forum, a former committee member of the Property Council of Australia, and a recognized thought leader in the higher education sector. Her research, writing, and client advisory work have contributed to industry-wide dialogue on how education environments can adapt to shifting economic, demographic, and technological conditions.
Carroll joins Ayers Saint Gross at a moment of sustained strategic momentum. One year into his presidency, Joel Fidler, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, has built on the foundation established by longtime President Luanne Greene, under whose tenure the firm advanced its approach to design excellence, data-informed planning, sustainability, and inclusive engagement. Carroll’s arrival continues Ayers Saint Gross’s commitment to an interdisciplinary, inclusive practice that values collective wisdom to provide clients with the best services.
“Marina brings a rare combination of design talent, sector expertise, and organizational insight,” said Joel Fidler. “As we continue to usher in the new era of Ayers Saint Gross, her knowledge, global perspective, and deep immersion in the industry will strengthen our ability to support mission-driven clients.”
“Ayers Saint Gross represents the best of what our industry can be: thoughtful, rigorous, and deeply committed to designing for culture, learning and research,” said Carroll. “The firm has long set the benchmark for design and strategic thinking in higher education, and this is a defining moment for institutions everywhere. I am excited to help our clients chart their next chapter with clarity and confidence.”
Based in New York City, Carroll will collaborate with leaders and colleagues in Ayers Saint Gross’s Baltimore, MD, Washington, D.C., and Tempe, AZ studios to support clients and advance the firm’s interdisciplinary work. She will build on the firm’s deep expertise in higher education and cultural institutions, expanding opportunities with clients nationwide and reinforcing a commitment to creating environments that support learning, culture, and community.
Photo: Courtesy Ayers Saint Gross