Elena graduated from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design. During her time at Virginia Tech, she served in a leadership role with the campus ministry Cru and as a teaching assistant for Interior Design Construction Documentation.

Her passion for interior design was recognized when she was named a Metropolis Future 100 winner, an award honoring 25 of the top interior design undergraduate students in the United States and Canada. This recognition reflects her commitment to creating spaces that enhance people’s wellbeing and everyday experiences.

Today, Elena works at AECOM as an Entry-Level Interior Designer, contributing to commercial projects with a focus on federal government work. Looking ahead, she hopes to continue learning and growing as a designer while using her passion for design to invest in the Roanoke community. Outside of work, she enjoys pickleball, spending time outdoors, and exploring Roanoke with family and friends.