Kara specializes in applying evidence-based design principles to inform design decision and project outcomes. She serves as the co-chair of the Research Council where she helps spearheads research initiatives across all disciplines firm-wide. Kara has multiple publications in Health Environments Research and Design Journal and is a reputable speaker at national healthcare and design conferences. Her integrated approach to applying research into project work has been recognized with several Evidence-Based Design Touchstone Awards by The Center for Health Design and Certificates of Research Excellence (CORE) by Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA). In 2017 she received George Pressler Under 40 Award by Healthcare Facilities Symposium and Expo for her leadership and vision within the healthcare design field.