Our Team

MAKE ART SMART is an unfunded group of volunteer concerned citizens who are professional architects, planners, attorneys, business and community leaders. MAKE ART SMART volunteers came together on the behalf of all citizens and stakeholders who care about and are effected by the impact of a huge project on Route 66/Central Ave. Our mission is to align the design of Albuquerque’s proposed bus rapid transit system with preserving the charm and vibrancy of the most important historic segments remaining along Albuquerque’s Route 66. Concerned Citizens is dedicated to educating the public and providing useful information about ART. We support a well-designed bus rapid transit system IF it supports and enhances the character and functionality of our most valuable, historically sensitive areas.

Anthony Anella

Architect, Anthony Anella Architecture

Anthony Anella is a conservationist, a writer, and an architect. He was responsible for restoring the steeples and re-roofing the San Felipe de Neri Church in Old Town. He co-authored Never Say Goodbye: The Albuquerque Re-photographic Survey Project, a collection of essays inspired by historic and contemporary photographs of the same places in Albuquerque. The point of the essays is to promote a long-term versus short-term understanding of the wider issues and deeper forces affecting our City so that we might imagine a better future for our children.

Jean Bernstein

Founder and CEO, Flying Star Cafe

Founder and CEO of Flying Star Cafe and Satellite Coffee. In November of 1987, Jean and husband Mark opened their first location on old Route 66 in Albuquerque’s Nob Hill District. The brand now operates across most of Albuquerque, maintaining its strong connection to and support for the community.

Yolanda Gallegos, Esq.

Attorney, Gallegos Legal Group

One of the nation’s most experienced education law attorneys, Yolanda Gallegos counsels colleges and universities on matters related to federal student aid, regulatory compliance, risk management, and accreditation and licensing matters.

Paul Lusk

Former Principal Planner, Albuquerque & Bernalillo County

Lusk is emeritus professor of Architecture and Planning at the University of New Mexico. What is clear to anyone who meets Paul is that his true vocation is a nuanced approach to existing environments and/or problems. His message is this: By engaging with our environment as it is, learning about it and being responsible with its resources, we can enhance and improve the system.

Julie Stephens

Consulting Community Planner & Owner, Stephens & Associates

Julia Stephens (Julie) has worked with New Mexico rural and urban communities for over forty years in human and resource development including areas of health, community development, public participation, water quality, renewable energy and efficiency.

Don't Be Shy. Get In Touch.

If you are interested in working together, send us a note and we will get back to you as soon as we can! MAS_stroke_small