NeoCon Presentation Description: Educational environments are often designed for an "average" learner, yet no such learner exists. This session demonstrates how play-based, biophilic, and neurodiverse-informed design strategies can improve behavior, focus, emotional safety, and well-being. Presenters; including the Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations, Architect, and Interior Designer, share how the Bright Futures Preschool transformed an underutilized building into a flexible, high-performing learning environment. Attendees will explore strategies such as sensory-conscious materials, zoning, daylighting, acoustics, and play-based layouts, and leave with practical frameworks for aligning educational vision with inclusive design execution across early learning, K-12, and higher education projects, positioning neurodiversity as a driver of better outcomes for students, staff, and communities.
Monique Taylor, NCIDQ, LEED AP ID+C, WELL AP, LFA, IIDA
Senior Interior Designer I Sustainability Coordinator
Legat Architects
Monique Taylor is an interior designer and sustainability leader dedicated to creating inclusive environments that support health, learning, and well-being. She specializes in designing for neurodiversity, exploring how sensory experience and spatial design influence behavior, focus, comfort, and belonging for building users. Monique believes integrating nature into interior environments strengthens connection, resilience, and performance. She partners with schools, municipalities, and healthcare providers to translate vision into equitable, research-informed design solutions. A native of Cape Town, South Africa, her experiences shaped her commitment to socially responsible design. Monique leads sustainability strategies for her firm and serves on the IIDA Chicago Board.
Bryan Archibald, AIA, LEED AP
Senior Associate I Studio Director
Legat Architects
Bryan Archibald is a designer and Studio Director in Legat Architectsâ Quad Cities studio with nearly two decades of experience leading community, educational, and municipal projects across western Illinois and eastern Iowa. He shapes the concept, character, and performance of each assignment while guiding Building Information Modeling, sustainability and LEED goals, detailed documentation, and construction administration. Bryan is known for hands-on collaboration, technical excellence, and mentorship of emerging professionals. His leadership balances creative vision with constructability, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, on schedule, and aligned with client missions. His work reflects a commitment to strengthening communities through thoughtful, high-quality design.
Jennifer Hamm
Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations
CUSD #205
Jennifer Hamm serves as Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations for Galesburg Community Unit School District #205, where she guides financial planning, facilities management, and long-term operational strategy. She works closely with educators, designers, and community partners to ensure that resources are aligned with student-centered goals and high-quality learning environments. Jennifer is committed to creating safe and inclusive spaces that support teaching, well-being, and belonging. Her leadership integrates fiscal responsibility with forward-thinking decision-making, helping translate educational vision into effective, achievable outcomes. Jenniferâs collaborative approach ensures that facilities and operations strengthen the daily experiences of students, staff, and the broader community.
John Asplund
Superintendent of Galesburg
CUSD #205
Dr. Asplund has been an educator for over three decades. He has served as a High School
Teacher, Coach, and Principal, District Curriculum Director, and, for the past twenty-four years,
as a District Superintendent. For the past nine years, John has served as Superintendent of
Galesburg CUSD #205 in Galesburg, IL.
John earned his Bachelor of Arts degree (English Literature/Speech Communication) from
Augustana College, a Master of Science in Education Administration, and also an Education
Specialist Degree from Western Illinois University, and he earned his Doctor of Education from
Illinois State University (Education Leadership and Foundations).
John and his wife Julie are proud parents of three educators: Isaac, Eli, and Clara
This content will not be available until 06/07/2026 at 8:00 AM (EDT)
