Architect of Change: How Hannah Cornelius Merges Passion with Purpose
Project manager and team leader, Hannah Cornelius is a dynamic force at ESa, where her six-year journey is a testament to passion and dedication in the world of architecture. With a foundation built at Auburn University, Hannah’s career began with a choice between architecture and construction. Guided by a mentor, she discovered the multifaceted opportunities within architecture firms, eventually leading her to ESa. An inspiring interview with principal, Charlie Jorgensen, and a pivotal internship at ESa solidified her commitment to the firm.
Hannah’s expertise shines in healthcare architecture, a field she was drawn to by personal experience. With a mother working as a practice administrator and her father, a two-time cancer survivor, has been in remission for nearly 20 years, who frequently visited hospitals, she developed a deep appreciation for healthcare environments. This personal connection, combined with her internship experience, has made healthcare design a fulfilling specialty for Hannah.
Leadership, Mentorship and Impact
Hannah’s project portfolio features notable achievements, including the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Arthur M. Blank Hospital, a 19-story, 2 million-square-foot healthcare facility that stands as a career highlight, and the lobby renovation at St. Thomas River Park in McMinnville, Tenn. The River Park renovation was especially meaningful, as it revitalized a space originally designed by ESa in 1993, symbolizing the firm’s long-standing impact and the excitement of breathing new life into a beloved project.
As a project manager and team leader, Hannah thrives on the diversity and challenges her role presents. She excels at juggling multiple projects, collaborating seamlessly with contractors and engineers, and approaching new challenges with a strategic mindset. Hannah likens her role to that of a quarterback, orchestrating communication and problem-solving while fostering a positive and productive office culture.
Her pride in her work is particularly evident in her appointment as a team leader, a role that highlights her commitment and the strong support she receives from her colleagues. Mentorship has been a cornerstone of Hannah’s career growth. She credits her development to mentors like principal Meghan Hartwell, who guided her through projects like Arthur M. Blank Hospital, and principal, Jill Romano, whose leadership continues to inspire her. Although initially drawn to ESa for its focus on healthcare projects, it’s the firm’s unique culture—emphasizing the alignment of personal strengths with career development—that has made it the perfect fit for Hannah.
Advocacy, Creativity and Community
Beyond her professional achievements, Hannah is deeply committed to community service, with a strong focus on the American Cancer Society (ACS). Inspired by her father’s role as a founding member of the Lights of Hope campaign, which advocates for cancer research funding, Hannah has continued his legacy by actively engaging with ACS’s Cancer Action Network. This volunteer-driven branch of ACS focuses on the political aspects of cancer funding, encouraging volunteers to share their stories and advocate for cancer policies at both local and national levels.
As an ACS Leader, Hannah coordinates efforts within her Congressional District, overseeing communication with lawmakers and organizing advocacy activities. Her responsibilities include leading volunteer initiatives, corresponding with legislators, and participating in lobbying events in both Nashville and Washington, D.C. This role not only supports essential cancer research funding but also fosters meaningful connections with those affected by cancer, deepening her understanding of the impact of advocacy.
While the American Cancer Society remains a primary focus, Hannah is also involved with the American Heart Association PULSE Young Professionals Board and Women in Healthcare and leads recruitment efforts at ESa, organizing college recruitment events and job shadowing opportunities for aspiring architects.
In addition to her professional and advocacy work, Hannah enjoys creative hobbies like antiquing, crafting, and traveling. She particularly loves crafting collages from vintage matchbooks, a hobby she began during COVID-19 pandemic, which involves creating personalized shadow boxes for gifts or sale.
Hannah’s dedication to her career, community, and personal passions exemplifies a life well-balanced between professional excellence and meaningful impact. Her journey is a testament to the power of mentorship, creativity, and advocacy in shaping both personal fulfillment and a brighter future for others.
Quickfire Questions:
Where did you grow up?
Cullman, Alabama, a small town situated between Huntsville and Birmingham. Known for its convenience as a rest stop for travelers on I-65, Cullman provided Hannah with a grounded start before pursuing higher education at Auburn University.
What was your first job?
Hannah’s first job was working at her family’s fruit stand. Her grandparents owned a farm where they grew a variety of produce, sold from a metal building her grandfather built by hand. Alongside her cousins, they were the harvesters, the cashiers, the customer service representatives and the cleaning crew.
What has been your proudest achievement?
Hannah is particularly proud of her appointment as a team leader. Her role involves working with a special group of individuals and contributes significantly to ESa’s success. The position came as a pleasant surprise and represented a significant milestone in her career, reflecting her dedication and the support from colleagues and mentors.
What advice do you have for recent graduates?
Be honest about your goals and find mentors who will advocate for you. Clear communication about career aspirations helps in positioning oneself for success and ensures that opportunities align with personal ambitions.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Hannah reflects on the importance of taking time to breathe and put things in perspective. She wishes had known earlier in life that it’s crucial to pause and rest, especially with her go-getter personality. This advice continues to be relevant as Hannah strive to balance ambition with self-care.
What are you currently reading and/or watching?
Hannah’s is currently reading a fantasy book series and has plans to read Barack Obama’s memoir, inspired by seeing someone reading it during a recent beach trip. She enjoys biographies and historical fiction.
For television, Hannah enjoys true crime and detective stories, with a particular fondness for “Law & Order” and true crime documentaries available on Netflix.
What was the first concert you went to?
Hannah’s first concert was an NSYNC show, notable for its memorable performance where the band descended from the stage on strings.
What is on your bucket list?
Travel is a significant aspect of Hannah’s bucket list. She dreams of taking an extended trip, ideally to Italy, either after retirement or before. She loves to travel and plan multiple trips with her partner, Eric, always keeping a few destinations in mind.
One of their favorite trips was a recent visit to Montreal and Quebec City during the holiday season. The surprise and joy of the trip made it particularly memorable, highlighting their preference for spontaneous and magical travel experiences.