Andrew McGlory
CEO & Founder of Architect McGlory Studio
A Visionary’s Journey: From Mississippi Roots to Architectural Excellence
Andrew McGlory’s journey into architecture began with a dream that was ignited in his 8th-grade classroom in Chicago. Having won a national student art contest, young Andrew was honored with a reception and a book of autographs from his classmates, filled with encouraging words about his future as an artist. It was in that moment, surrounded by the support of his peers, that Andrew realized he wanted to create something that went beyond fine art—he wanted to design shelters and spaces that would have a lasting impact on people’s lives.
Pursuing the Dream
Born in Lorman, Mississippi, to second-generation sharecroppers and great-grandparents who had been born into slavery, Andrew’s early life was defined by resilience and determination. As part of the Great Migration in the late 1950s, his family moved north, settling in Chicago where Andrew would grow up. The second oldest of nine children, Andrew was the first in his family to graduate from high school and college, achievements that laid the foundation for his future in architecture.
Claiming the Dream
Andrew’s career is a testament to his commitment to making a difference through architecture. He began his professional journey with VISTA as a Community Architect in North Minneapolis, focusing on projects that served underrepresented communities. His work then took him across the globe, contributing to projects in Africa, India, and Madagascar, where he honed his skills and gained invaluable international experience.
Upon returning to Minnesota, Andrew held a pivotal role at the Saint Paul Schools Facility Planning Department for 24 years, where he provided architectural and administrative leadership for multi-use educational facilities. His work in this role included planning new buildings, overseeing modifications to existing ones, and managing large-scale projects up to $50 million.
Architect McGlory Studio: Bringing Dreams to Life
In 2015, on the 15th anniversary of his father’s passing, Andrew founded Architect McGlory Studio. This was the realization of a lifelong dream, built on over 35 years of experience in architecture, interior design, urban planning, and real estate development. As the CEO and Principal Architect, Andrew leads the studio with a dual focus on design excellence and community impact. His firm is dedicated to creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also culturally and socially significant.
Legacy and Leadership
Andrew McGlory’s legacy is one of breaking barriers, pushing boundaries, and inspiring change. From his early days as a young artist with a dream to his current role as a leader in architecture, Andrew has always believed in the power of design to transform lives and communities. His work is a reflection of his belief that architecture is not just about buildings, but about the people who inhabit them and the stories they tell.
