NeoCon Presentation Description: Opening July 4, 2026, Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library sets a bold new standard for sustainable design. In this session, JLG Architects -the project Architect of Record- leads an immersive exploration of the "Living Library," revealing innovative strategies that position TRPL as a model for regenerative design. The project is pursuing Living Building Challenge, LEED Platinum, and SITES Platinum certifications.
Presenters will share the Library's evolution from the 2020 design competition through the LBC performance period, highlighting how the design responds to the Badlands landscape and local ecosystems. Attendees will learn how the Owner's sustainability initiatives spurred innovations such as healthy materials, low-carbon concrete, rammed earth walls, mass timber, and salvaged wood furnishings. The team will also demonstrate how this ecology-rooted Library integrates digitally immersive storytelling that inspires change and honors Roosevelt's conservation legacy.
Jennifer Jackson, AIA, LEED AP
Principal & Community Studio Leader
JLG Architects
A Principal and Community Studio Leader at JLG Architects, Jennifer Burke Jackson advocates for empowered communities. Her 19-year portfolio, including the upcoming Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and the Heart River Womenâs Transformational Center, embodies public-informed design emphasizing active well-being, inclusivity, sustainable integration, and future-ready resilience. Advancing inspired spaces by way of inspired people, Jennifer founded JLGâs Community Matters podcast in 2023, launching insightful discussions for impactful solutions catalyzed by the diverse perspective of regional leaders, nonprofits, and community members. Jennifer graduated from North Dakota State University with a Master of Architecture, Bachelor of Environmental Design, and Bachelor of Mass Communications.
Karen Mutschelknaus, NCIDQ Certificate # 21777, LEED AP BD+C, IIDA
Senior Interior Designer & Interior Design Studio Leader
JLG Architects
As JLG Architectsâ Interior Design Leader, Karen Mutschelknaus emphasizes a thoughtful design process led by intuitive function and people-centric spaces that acknowledge the needs of both users and owners. With 28 years of experience, she believes in the consistent application of the fundamentals, engaging specialized training in the fusion of fabrics, colors, textures, patterns, and biophilia to deliver intelligent design solutions. Karen graduated from South Dakota State University, where she majored in Interior Design before earning her 2006 NCIDQ certification from the National Council for Interior Design Qualifications.
Chayna Claeys, AIA, LEED AP, LFA
Sustainability Specialist
JLG Architects
A North Dakota native and Sustainability Specialist at JLG Architects, Chayna Claeys brings two decades of expertise interweaving architecture and sustainability. Chayna is a collaborative leader who empowers teams to achieve high-performance project goals, certifications, and sustainable company operations. Heading the sustainability team for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, she advocates for market transformation that supports a healthy future. Chayna earned her Bachelor of Architecture and Bachelor of Environmental Design from North Dakota State University. She is active with USGBC, Living Future, and is a co-chair of the AIA Minnesota Committee on the Environment (COTE).
Haley Patrick
Interior Designer II
JLG Architects
A JLG Architects Interior Designer II and SDSU graduate, Haley Patrick blends her background in interior design, graphics, and figure skating to "choreograph" the movement of people through a space. She focuses on visual unity and comfort by integrating sustainable, biophilic elementsâlike native materials and texturesâto strengthen indoor/outdoor connections. Following a deep dive into material transparency for TRPL, Haley is dedicated to a selection process that prioritizes responsible, high-impact design.
This content will not be available until 06/07/2026 at 8:00 AM (EDT)
