By Allana J. Barefield
Staff Writer
Dallas Independent School District teacher Lorena Toffer transitioned from being an architect to now teaching the next generation of leaders.
Toffer worked in the architect industry for more than 15 years and decided to instill her skills into others. This is her first year teaching at Career Institute East, where she is the instructor for the Principles of Architecture course.
“What really gets me excited about this class, is opening their eyes and really having them explore and to understand the world around them,” Toffer said. “I wish I had this opportunity when I was in high school.”
In 2004, Toffer graduated with her masters in Architecture from Texas A&M University. Immediately, after she graduated she was employed at a lead design firm in Dallas, Corgan. She was then moved up to senior project manager where she spearheaded multiple projects from sketches to construction.
“Something that you drew, something came from your creativity can translate and have a direct impact in your neighborhood, in your community,” Toffer said.