John Pfluger

For more than three decades, John has advanced educational design nationwide through an inclusive approach that fosters innovation, sustainability, and meaningful outcomes for students and communities. He believes that innovation flourishes when all parties share in design collaboration, and he excels at guiding diverse teams toward common goals. This philosophy has defined John’s work in education, where he emphasizes adaptability and flexibility in learning environments, ensuring spaces meet the evolving needs of students, educators, and communities.

Over the course of his career, John has influenced educational design nationwide, with schools in twenty-one states serving hundreds of thousands of students. At Cuningham, he has been instrumental in expanding the firm’s K-12 practice and fostering a culture of design innovation that continues to shape the firm’s approach. 

Beyond his project leadership, John contributes to national dialogue on the future of education as a member of the American Architectural Foundation’s Design for Learning Council. His projects have earned recognition from multiple chapters of the American Institute of Architects, and his advocacy for sustainability advances regenerative practices across the field. By integrating frameworks such as LEED and CHPS into design, John champions solutions that align environmental responsibility with long-term educational value.