2026 Faith and John Gaw Meem Intern Alicia Varoz Salon

Thursday, July 30, 3pm
Thaw Education and Research Center
545 Canyon Road

Free for Members, $10 for non-members

Join us in welcoming the 2026 Faith and John Gaw Meem Intern Alicia Varoz as she discusses her internship with Historic Santa Fe Foundation. Learn all about the projects that she worked on, and get a glimpse of what it takes to be preservationist in action.

“This summer, I had the honorable privilege of working alongside the Historic Santa Fe Foundation (HSFF) where I gained hands-on experience in traditional New Mexican construction methods and historic preservation practices . Through fieldwork, preservation projects, historic site tours, and community engagement, I developed a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural significance of New Mexico's built environment. As a native New Mexican, this experience strengthened my connection to my home and reaffirmed my commitment to preserving its architectural heritage through thorough design.  Some of the projects I have worked on and learned from this summer were: 

  • Stone wall & Concrete Masonry

  • Adobe Brick making / Mud-Plastering

    • Moisture Testing and wall diagnostics

    • Plaster Delamination assessment

    • Waterproofing evaluation

  • Painting / Custom Door Sill

  • Wood Working (Basic Carpentry)

  • Historic Site Evaluations”

ABOUT THE SALON

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Alicia Varoz is an Architectural Designer who is inspired by creative thinking, cultural stewardship, and the preservation of community histories. Alicia recently graduated from UNM with her Masters of Architecture and Certificate in Historic Preservation. She is passionate about designing spaces that foster belonging while honoring the people, traditions, and stories that shape them. As she continues her professional journey, she aspires to become a licensed architect and collaborate with communities to create meaningful, culturally rooted places.