Purpose

The Dean’s Council for Design and Planning Excellenceconfers membership on those individualswho share a fundamental commitment toward the enhancement of our physical environment andcommunity. In its advisory capacity, the Councilacts to stimulate thought and discussion that willfurther the goals for both the School of Architecture and Planning and the larger community in whichthe University of New Mexico resides. Contributing their knowledge and expertise, members of theCouncil help establish and direct an agenda for both the School and the community. Members alsoassist the School in the development of programs, curricula, and outreach efforts.

Membership

Membership of the Council reflects the diversity of interest in both the process of design andplanning and the importance of design quality. Broad representation – by those professionsinvolved in shaping the built environment and those community leaders that represent thebeneficiaries of good design – is critical to the success of the Council.

The Council convenes three times during the academic year. These meetings serve as a forum forthe introduction and discussion of issues and the identification of priorities. Individual members arealso invited to meet with the Dean and other selected faculty on an occasional basis to addressspecific opportunities or concerns.

Benefits of Membership

Members of the Council benefit from an increased awareness of the knowledge base that isencompassed in the School of Architecture and Planning and its research and service centers, andstudies and projects undertaken through the Design and Planning Assistance Center and theResource Center for Raza Planning.

Council members receive invitations to the School’s John Gaw Meem Lecture Series as well asreceptions for guest speakers, exhibition openings and other special events.

Members are encouraged and privileged to visit the regularly scheduled studios, classes, andspecial lectures of the School of Architecture and Planning.

Members receive complimentary copies of all School publications.

Council members seeking candidates for employment may meet with students and review work inthe studios and formal critiques.

particular value to the Member is the benefit of knowing that the Council -- through its collective interests and shared vision -- is able to exert a positive influence on the processes that shape the quality of design and the quality of life in New Mexico as well as enrich the programs at the UNM School of Architecture and Planning.