Alicia Volcy
Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Studio Volcy

Alicia Volcy’s mission is simple: “impact communities through design.”

She came to Pittsburgh via the UDream program at Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Architecture but stayed, to leave her mark on the city as a designer and real-estate developer.

“I’m just trying to provide opportunities in places that are beautiful, culturally inclusive and empower people,” she says.

She says she may not be ultra comfortable in the spotlight but wants to serve as an example for the “girl who’s good with art — and could start to own multimillion-dollar buildings.”

Studio Volcy is leading the RHYTHM SQUARE development in the Hill District, which Volcy says will provide space for creators and others.

Her advice to the region’s youth? Combine passion with community impact. Volcy has, over time, donated pro bono design services and held leadership roles with various causes, including as past president of the Pittsburgh chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects.