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Meet Your Neighbor: Todd-Avery Lenahan
By Callie Thomas
There are two very distinct philosophies when it comes to life. Some believe their destiny is a foregone conclusion, that no matter which road one chooses it will ultimately lead to a predetermined fate. Others believe that we are the architects of our lives and that each of us designs our own distinct destiny. Resident Todd-Avery Lenahan is a firm believer in the latter, and he’s done quite an amazing job using his creativity and know how to not only create his own happiness but to inspire the lives of others through his innate design skills, passion for learning and generous spirit.
One might say that Todd-Avery was “destined” to be an architectural designer, given that his mother was a designer and his grandfather was a mechanical engineer, but nothing is a fait accompli in Lenahan’s world. While his interest in the field may have been influenced by other factors, his decision to make it his life’s passion was purely his own. As Principal of ABA Design Studio, Lenahan has made an impression and impact on Las Vegas through his works for Wynn Las Vegas and Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group USA. The extent of his expertise and projects around the globe are nothing short of awe-inspiring. The only thing that could possibly top his passion for design is his interest in academics and sharing his knowledge with the youth of our community. As an appointee to the UNLV Foundation, Lenahan motivates students as an adjunct professor at the UNLV School of Architecture and serves on its Dean’s Advisory Board. He has also recently been added to the board of directors for Communities in Schools (CIS), a non-profit local affiliate of the nation’s leading dropout prevention organizations.
Why did you choose to support the Communities in Schools organization?
“CIS is fighting Nevada’s epidemic of having the worst graduation rate in America. Our mission is to surround students with a community of support that empowers them to succeed in schools and achieve in life.”
In other words, you’re giving them the tools to become the masters of their own lives that they wouldn’t have been afforded by dropping out?
“Right. Our state and city are facing a student crisis that impacts the quality of life for not only each student but for everyone in the community. The impact of CIS’s accomplishments is profound.”
CIS programs are supporting nearly 25,000 students over 29 school sites in Southern Nevada and Northeastern Nevada by connecting them with critical services and counseling. That’s a pretty impressive means of giving back to the community.
“Giving back on any level is important in making a place a little bit better than it was when we arrived. We must support any efforts towards improving the quality of life and sense of place, even if the result of our contribution isn’t anything that will be realized in our lifetime. It has to be done with hope, optimism and a view to the future.”
You’re also leaving quite a mark for the future through your design works.
“I suppose I’m proud of creating environments that excite the mind, provoke thought, create memories and elevate the human condition through sensory pleasure. Design is a powerful means of positively affecting people all over the world, and I’m proud and exhilarated to be able to do so every day.”
What do you think moves you every day?
“Beauty in any form and my family and friends.”
You travel a great deal for your work. Is it hard to stay connected to friends and family?
“I’m single and I have amazing family and friends that want to ensure that I won’t be single forever. I’m fortunate to meet incredible people wherever I go and enjoy each new unanticipated introduction. Whichever city I’m in, I’ll always be with friends. The more the better.”
