Curt Pierce (BCS Class of ’90)       

As you drive onto the 115-acre Briarcrest Christian School campus in Eads, Tennessee, the thoughtful design and intentional planning are immediately apparent. From the Saints Sportsplex and athletic facilities to the academic buildings that stretch from the Williams Elementary Wing to the Petree Athletic Center adjacent to the High School, every inch of the campus reflects the vision and expertise of Curt Pierce '90, our 2025 Paul Piper Distinguished Alumni Award recipient.

A proud Briarcrest alumnus, Curt has played a vital role in shaping the school’s physical landscape. His architectural leadership, grounded in strategic collaboration with the Board of Trustees and school administrators, has helped create a cohesive, welcoming environment where students, families, faculty, alumni, and guests feel a deep sense of community and pride.

After graduating from Briarcrest, Curt earned a degree in Architecture from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Fittingly, his very first professional project was the renovation of the main stage at Briarcrest’s former East Campus - an early sign of his enduring connection to his alma mater.  Since 2001, Curt has served as the lead architect for Briarcrest’s current campus.

Curt’s work at Briarcrest is more than just design:  it’s a legacy of excellence, stewardship, and love for a school that continues to shape the lives of the Saints. His career reflects a deep passion for excellence in architecture and a lasting investment in the future of the profession.

With 26 years of architectural experience, Curt serves as Vice President and Principal at 4FDesign. His extensive portfolio includes work with numerous private schools, colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations throughout the city. He is a member of several esteemed professional organizations, including the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), the American Institute of Architects (AIA – National, Tennessee, and Memphis Chapters), Lambda Alpha, and the Urban Land Institute (ULI), the world's oldest and largest network of interdisciplinary real estate and land use experts.

In addition to his design leadership, Curt also serves as owner and managing partner of the firm, where he prioritizes mentoring the next generation of architects. He actively involves emerging professionals in project meetings, presentations, and site visits, ensuring hands-on learning and professional development. His dedication extends to the broader community through over a decade of service as a guest speaker at high school career conferences and by hosting Briarcrest alumni and current students for internships and shadowing opportunities.

Curt and his wife Holly are members of Grace Evan, where he is the guitarist for the praise team band. Together, they support Briarcrest, St. Jude, Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, and Memphis Union Mission Meals. Curt and Holly are also proud sponsors of the Golden Saints Booster Club, with additional support for the Girls Soccer and Softball teams. Curt has three daughters – Caroline ’21, Catie ’25, and Claire ’27 – whom he has volunteer coached in Basketball and Soccer at Briarcrest, Grace Evan, and Hope Church.