STCC alumna finds success at Boston Architectural College

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – When Luisa Feeney ‘25 left her small hometown of Warren, Mass., for Boston this summer, she carried with her more than a suitcase. She brought the skills, confidence, and determination she gained at Springfield Technical Community College, where she graduated with high honors in Architecture and Building Technology.

Now enrolled at the Boston Architectural College (BAC), Feeney is on the path to becoming a licensed architect – and she’s part of a trailblazing group of five STCC alumnae pursuing the same goal. Professor Jennifer DeForge, program coordinator for the Architecture and Building Technology program, said STCC’s Architecture and Building Technology program often surprises people with the opportunities it creates.

“Not many people realize that STCC has an architecture program, but it truly serves as a launch pad to prestigious colleges and universities,” she said. “Students like Luisa show that you can begin your journey at a community college and go on to achieve remarkable things in the field of architecture.”

Dr. Miah Dreger, Dean of the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics at STCC, praised Feeney’s accomplishments as an example of how STCC prepares students for success. “We are incredibly proud of Luisa and her peers who have transferred to the Boston Architectural College,” Dreger said. “Their success highlights the strength of our program and the dedication of our faculty. STCC provides students with the skills, confidence, and academic foundation to thrive at the next level, whether they go directly into the workforce or transfer to continue their studies.”

For Feeney, the path to architecture began in her hometown, where she attended Quaboag Regional Middle & High School. “I really liked doing art and designing things when I was younger, and I also really enjoyed mathematics,” she said. “My mom suggested architecture, and when I took an AutoCAD (2D and 3D design and drafting) class in high school, I loved it. That’s what really got me into the field.”

It’s exciting to see her continue her education at Boston Architectural College. She and her classmates represent the best of STCC and the bright future of women in architecture. Jennifer Deforge, Professor, Architecture and Building Technology

When the time came to choose a college, Feeney sought an affordable path that would let her explore her interests without overwhelming debt. A high school advisor – and STCC alumnus – pointed her toward the Architecture and Building Technology program. “He said STCC was the best option,” Feeney recalled. “It ended up being the perfect place to start.”

Building a Strong Foundation at STCC

At STCC, Feeney found both challenge and support. She credits her professors, particularly Professor DeForge and advisor Jason Phillips, with guiding her through the program and showing her what the architectural field was really like.

“Professor DeForge gave it to us up front,” Feeney said. “She told us what the work field was like and shared stories from her own experiences. We even did an estimating project based on a house she built.”

Among the most meaningful moments for Feeney was designing a musical theater in one of her advanced courses. “That project meant a lot to me because I was able to use my past experiences and create something unique,” she said.

STCC’s program not only gave her hands-on experience but also opened unexpected doors. With guidance from faculty and advisors, she earned an additional certificate in Building Construction Management. “I didn’t even know that was possible until my professors showed me the pathway,” she said.

DeForge called her former student a talented designer with a strong work ethic and a passion for creating meaningful spaces.

“It’s exciting to see her continue her education at Boston Architectural College. She and her classmates represent the best of STCC and the bright future of women in architecture,” DeForge said.

Starting at BAC in August 2025, Feeney quickly noticed the benefits of her STCC foundation. “We’re doing assignments on views and sections, and if I didn’t have the background from STCC, I would have had no idea what the professors were talking about,” she said.

She’s also energized by the new environment. Living in Boston has been a big shift from her small hometown. “It’s odd but exciting,” she said. “In Warren, you have to drive everywhere. Here, I can walk to everything.”

What excites her most about BAC is the networking and exposure to professionals. “Many of the professors also work at firms, and the students I’ve met are interning or shadowing architects,” she said. “It’s very hopeful for my future because I know I’m building connections that will help me in my career.”

Looking Ahead: A Woman in Architecture

Feeney is proud to be part of a group of young women from STCC entering a traditionally male-dominated field. “It’s amazing to see so many women going for their licenses,” she said. “I want to support other women who are on this path and show future generations that they can do it, too.”

Sustainability is a passion she hopes to carry into her career. “I want to create buildings that look good but are also beneficial to the environment. Architecture can make a difference, and I want my designs to last while reducing harm to the Earth,” she said.

Ultimately, Feeney hopes her work will leave a legacy of safe, welcoming spaces. “I want people to feel comfortable and secure in the buildings I design,” she said.

Feeney encourages others to consider community college as a powerful start. “People tend to underestimate community college, but STCC is as great as any other school,” she said. “The professors and advisors are there to support you. Meet with them one-on-one, because they’ll find opportunities you didn’t even know existed.”

Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

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