Kahler Slater Proudly Announces Leadership Promotions to Associate Principal

Dan Causier, AIA 

As a skilled designer, Dan has made a significant impact on our residential and hospitality teams. His work exhibits a high degree of understanding of our client’s financial drivers and attention to detail. He is dedicated to delivering designs that are sustainable, high quality, and celebrate the unique opportunity each project offers. Dan served as a faculty member of the inaugural semester of the Kahler Slater Studio and has played a key role on many design-forward residential projects including complex single-family rentals. 

Carolyn Entzminger, AIA, LEED AP

As a Senior Project Leader on our Healthcare Team, Carolyn serves clients around the country from our Richmond office. Her vast experience in all aspects of design makes her a valuable resource to our healthcare clients and our team. She is known for her ability to balance client visions with project realities in order to deliver designs that positively impact their future patient care environments.  Carolyn is currently serving Carle health and multiple health systems in Virginia.

Jess Gardner, AIA

Jess is an instrumental member of Kahler Slater’s Healthcare Team based in our Richmond office. In their role as Project Architect and a leader of our Automation initiative, they are dedicated to making information and knowledge equitable and accessible through different modes of communication. Considered a versatile resource to colleagues, projects, and the firm, Jess has provided a positive impact across Kahler Slater. Jess is currently engaged on several key projects, including Sentara Halifax’s replacement hospital. 

Paul Kitchen, AIA

Paul is a sought-after member of our Healthcare Team due to his ability to flex into many roles within a project. With a passion for both design and technology, Paul serves as our Automation Leader for the firm and is known for his ability to create thoughtful, data-based solutions to meet client goals. Paul has served several clients over the years as masterplanner, designer, and project architect, including with Mayo Clinic Health System La Crosse, Children’s Wisconsin Appleton Clinic, Centra Health, and Merrick Medical Center.  

Joel Koeppen, AIA

Joel is a well-rounded designer that serves our Residential and Hospitality clients. His commitment to craft and beauty, combined with a patient and rigorous appreciation for process allows him to easily flex between listening and creating. From civic and cultural projects to multifamily housing, Joel is skilled at thinking about how places can be designed to provide people with a harmonious experience. He served as faculty for the inaugural year of the Kahler Slater Studio. His recent experience includes a focus on student housing and mixed-use developments. 

Jeff Nelson 

Jeff is the National Director of Business Development focusing on college and university campuses around the country. Based in Kahler Slater’s Richmond office, Jeff contributes directly to the growth and strategy of our Higher Education Team. In his role, he develops client and partner relationships, guides strategic pursuits, and is a catalyst to our Mid-Atlantic growth. Jeff is considered a well-respected expert in the A/E/C and higher education industries and is known to build strong relationships through trust with clients and team members.

Matthew Schmidt

Matt serves as Kahler Slater’s Senior Financial Analyst and trusted advisor to each of our business teams. In his role, he oversees all financial aspects related to our clients as well as monitoring project performance. His ability to leverage technology and data for quick review and analysis has made a significant positive impact across the firm. Matt is a vital member of our Operations Team and is known for his collaborative style to build trust, provide accurate information, and be a reliable advisor.