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As we reflect on the milestones of 2022, one thing is clear—our team has grown stronger, more creative, and more inspired. This past year, we had the pleasure of welcoming three new architectural designers to Wilmot Sanz: James Galante, Deborah Abimaje, and Jack Garretson.
Each of them brings their own unique perspective, story, and motivation to the work we do. We’re thrilled to introduce them more fully and share their thoughts on healthcare architecture, their paths to the profession, and what makes them tick—both inside and outside the office.
Role at Wilmot Sanz: Architectural Designer
Current Focus: Developing physical site models and 3D printing surrounding project contexts.
After exploring both architecture and engineering in college, James found his passion leaned toward creative problem-solving and human-centered design. While he loved the technical challenge of engineering, he found architecture offered a more fulfilling long-term path—particularly in healthcare, where design directly influences healing and quality of life.
“Designing spaces that help people heal and get back to spending time with their loved ones—that’s what drew me in.”
His introduction to Wilmot Sanz began in 2020 at a Catholic University career fair. Though COVID disrupted internship opportunities at the time, James kept in touch—and two years later, he joined the firm full-time.
On what excites him most about healthcare design:
“I’m fascinated by how small design decisions—like the layout of operating rooms or nursing stations—can significantly affect response time and even save lives.”
Outside the office:
James enjoys reading fantasy and sci-fi, going to the movies, playing disc golf, and painting miniatures. He’s also a deeply values-driven person—his family and faith shape how he approaches design.
“I always try to ask myself: Is this good? Does it make the world better?”
Fun Facts:
Role at Wilmot Sanz: Architectural Designer
Originally from Nigeria, Deborah immigrated to the U.S. nearly a decade ago to complete her education—and decided to stay and build a life and career. With a lifelong passion for art and engineering, she found architecture to be the perfect balance of both. But it was the moral responsibility of healthcare design that truly inspired her.
“I wanted to use my skills to directly improve community health. Healthcare architecture allows me to do that in a meaningful way.”
Deborah joined Wilmot Sanz after being drawn to the firm’s reputation for excellence and impact. She’s most excited to learn how design influences the quality of treatment—especially through the lens of post-pandemic technological innovations.
“I’m fascinated by how space impacts healing, and I’ve also realized how many healthcare projects are funded by families who’ve lost someone. There’s such depth and emotion behind these environments.”
Outside the office:
Deborah is a storyteller and creative spirit. She dreams of becoming a children’s book author and illustrator, and in her free time, she’s often working on comics or playing the drums.
Fun Facts:
Role at Wilmot Sanz: Architectural Designer
Current Focus: Revit population, drawing markups, and learning the ropes of healthcare project workflows. For Jack, the spark for architecture came early—like many in the field, he was hooked on LEGO bricks as a kid. But as he grew older, that curiosity evolved into something deeper: a desire to create tangible spaces with lasting impact, particularly in healthcare.
“To design something that has an immediate, noticeably positive impact on someone’s life—that’s incredibly fulfilling.”
Jack was first introduced to Wilmot Sanz during an internship and knew he’d found the right place. He appreciated the personal connection and mentorship, which made the decision to return full-time an easy one.
“They weren’t just looking for a Revit machine. They were genuinely interested in me as a person.”
On what excites him about healthcare design:
“I love working within constraints. There’s something exciting about pushing the boundaries of a highly regulated system—finding moments for creativity and impact.”
Outside the office:
Jack proudly self-identifies as a nerd. He collects toys, Legos, and Transformers, plays tennis, and has a deep appreciation for the history behind games and play.
“Transformers are like design puzzles—limited space, specific goals. Just like floor plans under tight code restrictions!”
Fun Facts:
As we close the chapter on 2022 and look forward to the year ahead, we’re incredibly grateful for the talent, energy, and creativity James, Deborah, and Jack have brought to the Wilmot Sanz team. Their curiosity, commitment to service, and diverse perspectives are already making a mark—and we can’t wait to see how their journeys continue to unfold.
