Exciting News from CDFL

CDFL is proud to share some exciting news about additions to our firm’s leadership team! Architects Chris Myers, AIA; Matthew Buchanan, AIA; and Newell Watkins, AIA, have recently been named Principals of the firm. Additionally, architect Katie Lightsey Browning, AIA, has been elevated to the position of firm Associate. 

“We are thrilled to add these incredibly talented architects to our leadership team,” said CDFL President Rob Farr. “As we look to the future of the firm, we know that Chris, Matthew, Newell, and Katie’s experience and fresh perspective will be invaluable tools for both our team and our clients.”

Upon graduating from Mississippi State University in 2001, Chris Myers joined the CDFL team where he has accrued a wide variety of experience in military, institutional, and corporate projects. His primary expertise is in project management, and his passion lies in community involvement. Chris served as an Associate of the firm for three years prior to being named Principal.

Matthew Buchanan, a member of the CDFL team since 2001, is experienced in civic, institutional, and educational project types. These days, however, Matthew’s primary focus is athletic facility design. Matthew is a graduate of Mississippi State University and served as an Associate of the firm for three years prior to being named Principal.

A graduate of Mississippi State University, Newell Watkins focuses on integrating BIM technologies with the firm’s design strategies. Newell has a broad range of experience, having worked with educational, institutional, and civic clients and is licensed in Mississippi and Georgia. Newell has been a part of the CDFL team for four years.

Katie Lightsey Browning has over 9 years of experience providing architectural and planning services for a wide range of project types. She has gained valuable experience providing design services for the University of Mississippi, the State of Mississippi, and private entities. She is a graduate of Mississippi State University.

Congratulations to this outstanding group! We are grateful for their continued commitment to CDFL and look forward to watching them grow in their respective new roles.