After a distinguished career, Senior Principal Donald F. Minnery, AIA has announced his retirement from Saratoga Associates effective April 1, 2025.
Don joined Saratoga Associates in 1985 as a Project Manager in the firm’s Higher Education Planning and Design practice. Throughout his distinguished career, he played a pivotal role in shaping and expanding Saratoga Associates’ impact, not only across New York State but also nationwide. His early projects included work at Columbia-Greene Community College and Fulton-Montgomery Community College, later extending to institutions such as Union College, Siena College, and the College of Saint Rose. Under his leadership, Saratoga’s Higher Education portfolio grew to include institutions as far-reaching as the University of Alaska Southeast, the Community College of Allegheny County, and Cuyahoga Community College, as well as Rutgers University, Medgar Evers College, and York College in Brooklyn.
Beyond higher education, Don brought a wealth of experience in historic preservation, leaving a lasting legacy on some of the most significant structures in the region. His expertise contributed to the restoration of the fourth-floor Senate lobby of the New York State Capitol, the interior restoration of the Blackwell House on Roosevelt Island, and numerous other landmark projects, including the New York State Bar Association façade restoration in Albany, the Mills Mansion in Staatsburg, the National Museum of Dance, Saratoga Springs City Hall, and the Lake Avenue Firehouse.
Don’s leadership within Saratoga Associates was equally profound. His humble sense of humor and kind nature set the tone for relationships and indeed the culture of the firm. He became Principal in 1988, was named Senior Principal in 2001, and Chairman of the Board of Directors in 2011. His guidance, dedication, and passion for design and preservation have shaped the firm’s identity and success over the past four decades.
A Message from Dan Shearer, President/CEO
“Don has been an integral part of Saratoga Associates for nearly 40 years, shaping not only our firm but also the communities and institutions we serve. His leadership, expertise, and dedication have left an indelible mark on our profession. Beyond his technical talents, Don has been a mentor, a colleague, and a friend to so many of us. While his presence will certainly be missed, his impact will continue to be felt in every project he touched. On behalf of all of us at Saratoga Associates, we wish Don a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement.”
A Message from Matt Allen, Principal
“Having worked alongside Don for four decades, I can say with certainty that his passion for architecture, preservation, and education is unparalleled. His ability to balance technical precision with creative vision has inspired not only our clients but also everyone who has had the privilege of working with him. Don’s legacy at Saratoga Associates is undeniable, and I am grateful for the years of collaboration, camaraderie, and friendship. Congratulations, Don—you’ve certainly earned this next chapter.”
After nearly 40 years of building a legacy, Don is laying the foundation for his next great project—retirement! Now to pass the pun-ton, we extend our deepest gratitude for his years of service and contributions to the profession. His impact will be felt for generations to come, and we wish him all the best in this new chapter.
Please join us in celebrating Don’s extraordinary career and achievements!
