10.20.23
Join us in congratulating longtime Bora principal Chris Linn on his well-deserved retirement.
For the past 32 years Chris has been integral to shaping Bora’s practice, having led a range of projects from commercial to civic work, and being elevated to Principal in 2008. However, it is in the public K-12 market where he ultimately left his mark, building an impressive portfolio of schools across multiple districts while bolstering Bora’s reputation as an educational design leader.
Chris was an innovative explorer, always up for a challenge. The K-12 projects required deep work with school boards and stakeholders; Chris led relationally and without ego, earning respect as a trusted visionary. Despite often-strained budgets and schedules, Chris dove headfirst into the complexities, moving decisions forward while achieving groundbreaking designs.
Whether for the rural Vernonia K-12 replacement school, the innovative Faubion PK-8 School in partnership with Concordia University, the urban high-rise Lincoln High School, or—his final project—the new Art Rutkin Elementary School in Tigard, Chris brought Oregon communities to life through his designs, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of learners.
As his co-workers we were lucky to have a front-row seat to the everyday Chris Linn—his dry humor, his infectious laugh, his bigger perspective. He was rarely the first to speak among the principal group, patiently waiting to disrupt the “groupthink” with a brilliant insight that made us all better.
With his retirement imminent, Chris fully endorsed principal Stefee Knudsen to take the reins as a gifted leader who will continue to innovate K-12 for Bora. To Chris—our partner, colleague, passionate wine connoisseur, and friend—we raise a glass to you in gratitude for sharing your life’s work with us. May you find joy, adventure, and the finest of wines in your retirement.
Bottom photo credit: Erin Riddle/KLiK Concepts