Dorris Hwang Named a 2024 HCD Rising Star

At the 2024 Healthcare Design Conference + Expo in Indianapolis this October, one of Wilmot Sanz’s own took the national stage.

Dorris Hwang, AIA, LEED AP, WELL AP, EDAC, Senior Associate and Technical Enclosure Director, was honored as one of Healthcare Design magazine’s Rising Stars of 2024—a recognition that celebrates emerging leaders who are shaping the future of healthcare environments through innovation, purpose, and collaboration.

For Dorris, the award represents both a career milestone and a reflection of the passion that drives her work every day.

“It was around this time last year that I got the email every architect anticipates—I had passed my final ARE exam and officially became a licensed architect. Little did I know that accomplishment would be the start of a whirlwind year, culminating in receiving one of the Rising Star awards at the 2024 Healthcare Design Conference,” she shared.

A Year of Achievement and Reflection

In addition to becoming a licensed architect, Dorris was also accepted into the 2024 Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP)—a selective initiative of the AIA Washington, DC Chapter that cultivates emerging leaders in the design profession through mentorship, collaboration, and advocacy.

“Through CKLDP, I grew as both an architect and a professional in more ways than one,” Dorris reflected. “When my colleagues encouraged me to apply for the Rising Star award, the experience I had through CKLDP gave me the courage and confidence to go for it.”

Her recognition by Healthcare Design underscores not just her technical expertise, but her ability to bridge design, sustainability, and performance—ensuring that healthcare buildings function as thoughtfully as they look.

As Technical Enclosure Director, Dorris leads initiatives focused on building envelope performance, sustainability, and quality assurance across complex healthcare projects—contributing to Wilmot Sanz’s mission to design environments that are resilient, healing, and built to last.

Inspired by Innovation and Community

For Dorris, attending her first Healthcare Design Conference was just as rewarding as the award itself.

“Receiving the Rising Star award was a meaningful experience that I’ll cherish throughout my career. But being surrounded by passionate designers who love healthcare, sustainability, and the mission to put patients first—that’s what inspired me most,” she said. “It reminded me why I chose this field and motivated me to keep pushing innovation forward.”

Her story reflects Wilmot Sanz’s enduring commitment to mentorship, professional growth, and design excellence—values that have guided the firm for nearly six decades.

About Dorris Hwang

Dorris Hwang, AIA, LEED AP, WELL AP, EDAC, earned her Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies from the University of Washington. She is a licensed architect, LEED Accredited Professional, WELL Accredited Professional, and Evidence-Based Design Accredited and Certified through the Center for Health Design.

At Wilmot Sanz, Dorris’s leadership continues to elevate the firm’s technical standards, sustainability initiatives, and dedication to creating healthcare environments that enhance both human and environmental well-being.

Read more from Healthcare Design magazine’s feature on Dorris and the full list of 2024 Rising Star honorees.

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