Maria Denney

Maria Denney, AIA, is a visionary architect and accomplished construction manager who has dedicated over 25 years to creating innovative, sustainable, and inspiring educational environments. As a licensed architect in the State of California, Maria combines her multifaceted background as a contractor and construction manager to bring a holistic perspective to every project. Her leadership in educational design and bond program management has earned her a reputation as a trusted advocate for transformative learning spaces.

With a deep commitment to professional excellence, Maria is an active member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), where she contributes her insights and best practices to industry panels and forums. She has successfully partnered with numerous school districts across the Bay Area—including San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley—managing complex bond programs and delivering results that consistently exceed expectations.

One of her most notable achievements includes leading the $475 million Measure J Bond Program at Oakland Unified School District, where her strategic vision and commitment to community engagement made a lasting impact. Maria excels at balancing fiscal responsibility with visionary design, leveraging the strengths of her project teams to achieve shared goals.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Maria is passionate about mentorship and empowering the next generation of architects and builders. Her dedication to inclusive, future-ready spaces reflects her belief in the profound role architecture plays in shaping thriving communities and fostering educational success.

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