For Chris McCagg, his passion and aptitude for architecture and design is intuitive. With more than 35 years of hands-on experience in all facets of architecture and construction, Chris approaches each project — from new construction to historic renovations and additions — with great vision and respect for context, spatial flow, orientation, natural light, scale and budget. As Rogers McCagg’s president and chief designer, Chris leads his multi-talented team through complex, ambitious projects that have identified his firm as the premier choice for world-class master planning, architecture, and interior design services. Balancing aesthetics, functionality, and cost with the expectations of all stakeholders, Chris works meticulously through each detail to accommodate special interests, trouble shoot, overcome challenges, and exceed client expectations. Chris oversees all aspects of client services for Rogers McCagg. He is a registered architect in Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island, a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and a registered Interior Designer in Connecticut. He is an active member of The National Trust for Historical Preservation, The Nature Conservancy and Waverider Foundation. Mr. McCagg earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Temple University School of Architecture and a Diploma of Construction Management at New York University.
James G. Rogers, III, FAIA
Retired
Jim Rogers’ leadership of Rogers McCagg reflects more than 35 years of architectural practice based on collaboration and partnership with his clients. He specializes in the master planning and design of educational facilities, sports and recreational facilities, and private clubs. Jim holds a Bachelor of Arts from Yale University and a Master of Architecture degree from Columbia University. He served for 16 years as a trustee of Philips Exeter Academy and 4 as President of the Board. He is past President of the New Canaan Society for the Arts, The Yale Golf Association, recently completed a 6 year term as a trustee for the National Association of Independent Schools, and is on the Board of Horizons National. He is a licensed architect in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Missouri.
Tony Panza, AIA, LEED AP
Principal
In addition to his credentials as a registered architect and LEED AP (Accredited Professional in Energy and Environmental Design), Tony Panza is a known expert in all facets of club planning and design. With a wealth of experience in documentation and construction administration, Tony balances a full understanding of client goals with his knowledge of the construction process and the challenges contractors face. For Tony, exceptional customer service is paramount. His natural curiosity and problem-solving skills enable Tony to successfully navigate exacting architectural and process challenges. As evidenced by his long-term relationships, Tony earns the trust and loyalty of his clients. He is a sought-after authority on turf care facility architecture and was a featured presenter at the New Jersey Turf Grass Convention. Mr. Panza is a licensed architect in the state of New York, a LEED AP and a member of the American Institute of Architects. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture at Lehigh University as well as a Master of Architecture from Parson’s School of Design.
Mella Kernan, AIA
Principal
With exceptional communication skills and knowledge of every facet in planning and executing high-end architectural projects over a 32-year career, Mella Kernan’s ability to respond to the needs of all parties serves her clients well. Her experience includes managing complex commercial and residential architectural work resulting in the complete satisfaction of a discerning clientele. Mella’s in-depth background in architecture and construction coupled with her meticulous attention to detail make Mella a valuable member of the Rogers McCagg team. Prior to joining us in 2017, Mella ran her own architectural firm in Fairfield County, Connecticut and worked for leading New York City companies such as TAS Design, where she oversaw the design, development and construction phases of The Guggenheim Museum SoHo, New York City, working with Tokyo-based architect Arata Isozaki. Ms. Kernan is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) as well as a member of the Steering Committee for Women Build (an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity) of Coastal Fairfield County. Mella earned her Bachelor of Architecture from University College Dublin in Ireland. She is a registered architect in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Virginia and Wyoming.
Michael G. Tierney, LEED AP, BD+C
Principal
Michael G. Tierney joins Rogers McCagg with more than 30 years experience in all facets of high-end architectural design for both residential and commercial properties. He has worked as an Owner’s Representative and understands not only the designer’s viewpoint, but also the owner’s perspective, which is paramount for client satisfaction. From proposal stage to project completion, Michael’s well-rounded architectural skill set includes extensive design and construction documentation planning, construction administration and a strong commitment to sustainable design. He is well versed in client-architect-contractor sequencing and management for new construction, large-scale additions and historic preservation and reconstruction. While living in Europe at a young age, Michael was exposed to varied artistic and architectural wonders that instilled his creative spirit. A current Planning Board member for the Town of Bedford, New York and former Conservation Board member, Michael is a LEED Accredited Professional with a specialty in Building Design plus Construction (LEED AP BD+C). Michael earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Rhode Island School of Design and is a registered architect in New York. He is certified by the U.S. Green Building Council (GBCI).
Suzanne Fandel, Chief Operating Officer
Principal
As Chief Operating Officer for Rogers McCagg, Suzanne’s responsibilities encompass all daily operations including finance, human resources, marketing, public relations and administrative support throughout the organization. Suzanne brings to Rogers McCagg more than 25 years of experience in retail management plus the marketing and sales of architectural products and high-end home furnishing. A consummate professional with exceptional communication and analytic skills, Suzanne is a trusted advisor whose colleagues appreciate her unbridled energy and ability to provide creative solutions to challenges with a positive attitude. A role model for her team, Suzanne is respected for her collaborative spirit and meticulous customer service to Rogers McCagg’s diverse client base. Since 2001, Ms. Fandel has been instrumental in nurturing the firm’s growth and success. She approaches her work as a seamless extension of the professional services Rogers McCagg provides to its clients. Suzanne is a proud supporter of LifeBridge Community Services, Bridgeport, Connecticut, a non-profit organization that helps foster resilience and optimism in young people making their communities stronger with a lasting impact on lives.