Yale University - M.Arch '61
What was the most important thing/skill/concept you learned at the School of Architecture?
Design is a problem-solving process and when used to its fullest potential it has the potential to reshape the world.
Who made the most lasting impression (most influenced you) and why?
Faculty, such as Ralph Rapson, James Stageberg, John Rauma, and Leonard Parker who inspired me to think and act holistically and systemically. Roger Martin, a landscape architect and faculty/business colleague, helped me understand connections between landscape and buildings.
What is your favorite memory from your studio days?
Working hard and having fun on all of my design projects.
Please identify one (or more) memorable design project that you worked on while a student at the School of Architecture.
All those I got an A on and those that didn't, I at least felt I was reaching outside of the box.
What major forces (such as individual architects, design philosophies, rendering styles, research methods, etc.) do you remember influencing you significantly as a student?
I liked to draw and the School of Architecture emphasized drawing skills that I continue to utilize to this day in professional practice, academic research, and travel sketches.
Cite an example (be specific) that illustrates how you used the education you received at the School of Architecture to positively impact (or better) your community, city, nation or the world.
I am the founder of the Center for Rural Design at the U of MN, author of "Rural Design: A New Design Discipline," and considered a world leading expert in rural design that brings design thinking and the problem-solving process of design to rural issues worldwide.
