2024 Excellence in Architecture Design Awards

Co-chair: Russell Campaigne AIA, LEED AP Homes

Russell Campaigne, alongside his wife Mary Jo Kestner, established CK Architects a quarter-century ago. Located in coastal CT, their firm is renowned for its meticulous approach to creating environmentally conscious commercial and residential spaces. With the notable accolades of winning the AIACT Emerging Architects award, CT Zero Energy Challenge, and the distinction of designing Connecticut's first LEED Gold Home, CK Architects remains steadfastly committed to sustainable design. Russell’s expertise lies in seamlessly integrating innovative sustainable construction techniques into the timeless charm of New England vernacular designs, marking him as a leader in the field of sustainable architecture. Russell further contributes his knowledge and leadership skills to facilitate annual youth service trips to areas in need throughout the US.  

Co-chair: Mary Jo Kestner, AIA

Mary Jo Kestner is a founding partner at Campaigne Kestner Architects in Guilford.  A graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute School of Architecture, Ms. Kestner is an accomplished architect with a distinguished career spanning over two decades with accolades for sustainable architecture, restoration, and preservation efforts.  Mary Jo is deeply involved in community service, receiving a commendation from the State of Connecticut. She serves as a Corporator for Guilford Savings Bank and Guilford Foundation, actively supporting community initiatives, most recently focused on affordable housing.  She has received recognition for her leadership and contributions, including the AIA CT Emerging Architects Award and the Friend of Education Award from Guilford Public Schools.

Adam Hopfner

Adam Hopfner is the principal of Hopfner Studio, a design build practice in New Haven, Connecticut, working with residential, commercial and institutional clients in new construction as well as adaptive reuse projects.

At the Yale School of Architecture, Adam has been on the faculty since 2002. He is a Senior Critic and Director of The Jim Vlock First Year Building Project, leading students to engage with non-profits to design and construct dignified, affordable housing within the city of New Haven.

Reno J. Migani, AIA

Reno Migani is an Associate Principal at Centerbrook Architects in Connecticut, where he has practiced architecture since 1993. His work with Centerbrook has received national and international recognition.  Reno’s commitment to continually exploring diverse challenges, knowledge, and craft is reflected in his wide breadth of work, including master plans and building designs for colleges, universities, independent schools, museums, art centers, corporate offices, houses of worship, resorts, and private residences.  He believes strongly in a responsibility to mentor and share his experiences with his colleagues and partners to make teams and communities more cohesive both in and out of the office. Reno has served many organizations and commissions including 25 years on the Historic District Commission in his hometown of Guilford, Connecticut.

Karin Patriquin, AIA

Karin Patriquin is president of Patriquin Architects, an award-winning architectural firm based in New Haven, Connecticut, working with institutional, multi-family and commercial clients.

The office works on new construction, adaptive reuse of historic buildings and retrofit/renovation projects. Their recent Passive House renovation of King’s Block, the 3-story historic masonry building in which their studio works, was recently certified with PHIUS.

Karin is the Connecticut representative to the AIA’s Small Firm Exchange, is a LEED AP, a Certified Passive House Consultant and a Fitwel Ambassador.