Prior to founding CIVIC, Manuel worked at the School Building Authority (SBA) at the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) where he helped to build a nationally recognized school construction program and launch a ‘once in a lifetime’ State investment in public school facilities.  During his tenure, the SBA oversaw more than a $1B in public school construction in the State. 

Manuel’s interest in ground-up design activism led him to found DownCity Design, a non-profit design organization dedicated to improving civic life while offering inquiry-based, experiential learning opportunities. He enjoys sharing his passion for design with students of all ages, including high school and middle school students for DownCity Design and as adjunct faculty in the Architecture Department of the Rhode Island School of Design.  

Manuel received his undergraduate degree from Yale University and earned a Masters of Architecture degree from the University of California, Berkeley. He is an active member of the Providence community, having served on the Board of several local non-profits and currently serving on the Providence Redevelopment Authority Board.