SMPC Architects traces its roots back to 1944. Among its earliest employees was Mary Louise Grace — known as “Lou”— a trailblazer in architecture and engineering. Lou earned her Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of Illinois in the 1930’s, where she met classmate Don Stevens. Working in Albuquerque for Gordon Ferguson, Lou played a pivotal role in connecting Don to the firm, helping to lay the foundation for Stevens, Mallory, Pearl, and Campbell and what would eventually become SMPC Architects.
In 1950, Lou made history as the first female licensed architect in New Mexico (license #106) and the state’s first female licensed engineer. At a time when few women had the opportunity to work in this profession, she stood among a select group of female architect-engineers nationwide. We celebrate her groundbreaking achievements and over 20 years of dedication to the firm.
We continue to acknowledge the legacy of Lou Grace, reminding us how far the industry has come and the work that remains in advancing gender equity in architecture.