Evan Douglis, DEAN

Message from the Dean

Architecture finds itself at a pivotal moment in history, where a convergence of global interests demands a critical and innovative response from our discipline. With an increasing emphasis on developing new forms of renewable energy, smart grids, coastal city solutions, computational engines, sentient environments, and intelligent building components to address our growing environmental crisis, the architectural profession inherits a multitude of transdisciplinary priorities that necessitate a new era of creative inquiry and engagement.

Viewed as an opportune moment, the current academic landscape presents an ideal opportunity to delve into alternative design methodologies. Leveraging the burgeoning discoveries in computer science, information technology, biotechnology, and additive manufacturing, to name just a few, architectural education stands on the cusp of a new era—a paradigm shift promising to unleash visionary changes for our discipline previously unimaginable.

While the scientific and technological ingenuity I describe will undoubtedly contribute to the meaningful environmental changes we aspire to, it’s also important to remember that, at its core, architecture is a profoundly social endeavor. It should embrace and celebrate the vast richness of our ethnic, cultural, gender, and intellectual diversity, recognizing that our mosaic of differences represents our shared humanity. In line with this vision, our curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, community engagement, and ethical leadership, ensuring that our graduates are not only skilled practitioners and masters of their craft but also compassionate advocates for social and environmental justice.

In response to these pressing challenges and exciting opportunities, here at Rensselaer’s School of Architecture, we take pride in preparing our students to become future leaders in the profession, global citizens, and environmental stewards. We aspire to cultivate an environment and culture that celebrates the nobility of ideas, fosters theoretical inquiry, champions social responsibility, embraces interdisciplinary collaboration, and acknowledges the enduring impact of innovative design. Moreover, we challenge the next generation of architects to fulfill the promise of creating a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient world for generations to come.

Related Links:
NAAB Accreditation Information
Studio Culture Policy