Few people are as passionate or knowledgeable about designing progressive learning environments as CPL’s own Bill Greeley.
As an integral member of our higher education practice team, Greeley employs a listening ear and profound critical thinking skills to program forward-looking facilities that elevate campus life, stimulate closer working relationships between students and faculty, and promote student success.
Aside from juggling projects and mentoring junior team members, a typical day—though Greeley says there really is no such thing—might involve researching the latest higher education trends, collaborating with the marketing team to craft proposals, or conducting visioning sessions with clients to gauge needs and project requirements. A true activist and ambassador for positive change, he also spearheads the creation of comprehensive fundraising packages, helping clients pitch concepts to donors and bolster public support for new construction and renovation projects.
“I consider myself very fortunate to play a role in advising our partners in the higher education field,” Greeley said. “The notion that our work will benefit future generations of scholars is incredibly rewarding, and it motivates us to think outside the box in designing spaces that drive learning both in and out of the classroom.”
With a career spanning nearly two decades, Greeley has contributed extensively to CPL’s higher education project portfolio, including transformative renovations for the University of Rochester’s Gleason Library and the Hickey Dining Hall and La Verna Café at St. Bonaventure University (SBU). Serving as Architectural Project Manager, he also led the team in designing a new home for SBU’s School of Health Professions.
The new student common area, formerly a chapel, at SBU’s School of Health Professions.
“Whether we’re working on medical teaching environments, residence halls, athletic facilities, or dining halls, the spaces we program are student-centric and designed to augment comfort, increase focus and facilitate academic and interpersonal success,” Greeley explained, adding, “No two project typologies are ever the same, and the variety keeps our work fun and engaging.”
When he isn’t leading projects or meeting with clients, Greeley enjoys traveling, skiing, and kayaking with his wife and two daughters. He credits the firm’s flexible work-life policies with allowing him to cultivate quality family time, while facilitating his growth as a seasoned architectural professional.
“CPL takes a hands-on approach to career mapping—most firms don’t offer that level of support,” Greeley said. “I’ve had every opportunity to pave my own path, which has made all the difference.”
