Jessica McQuillen

Jessica McQuillen is currently the Research Coordinator for the Drachman Institute at the University of Arizona where she assists in research projects related to housing affordability, policy, green infrastructure, and healthy-design practices. She leads the Community Engaged Scholars program, a merit-based opportunity for students to work with faculty on projects related to community engaged design and research. From 2019 -2023 Jessica worked as an adjunct faculty member at CAPLA, coordinating the foundation design studio and teaching studio courses across the undergraduate curriculum. 

In addition to her role at the Drachman Institute, Jessica is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Architecture degree with a focus on agency and accessibility in owner-built housing. 

Born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, Jessica has an affinity for the desert landscape and architecture. Her design, arts, and crafts practice encompasses a variety of media including fibers, ceramics, and metals.