Architecture Alumni

Ryan Smith, director of the University of Arizona’s School of Architecture, co-authored a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) report outlining a national strategy to expand offsite construction as a solution to housing affordability and supply challenges. Drawing on global case studies, the report introduces an Offsite Action Plan focused on regulatory reform, innovation and education to accelerate scalable, high-quality housing production.

Jackie Hogan (’25 M.Arch + MS.Arch) is a dual-degree graduate of CAPLA whose work bridges architectural practice and research-driven design. Drawn to architectural history, theory and ethics, she pursued the M.Arch + MS.Arch dual degree to explore how research can shape meaningful design decisions. During her time at CAPLA, she engaged in community-centered design through Laura Carr’s studio working with the Tuba City community and completed a thesis examining architecture’s role in disaster relief and climate-related emergencies. Now working at Line + Space, Hogan brings an evidence-based approach to projects, applying research to create thoughtful spaces that connect people, culture and the environment.

Senior Lecturer in Architecture Oscar Lopez and three CAPLA alumni won first place in the 2025 AIA Arizona Ideas Competition for their proposal “BLOCK UP.” The project reimagines the urban tower as a vertical civic framework for Phoenix, integrating public space, housing and climate-responsive design into a shared, adaptable structure. Developed through close collaboration between Lopez and alumni Sal Arellano, Trevor Watson and Cameron Noble, the proposal explores how density can expand community and access beyond the street level, highlighting CAPLA’s impact on forward-thinking, civic-minded design in Arizona.

CAPLA students, alumni and faculty are redesigning the Cooper Center’s aging cabins to create more sustainable, student-friendly spaces.

The Helen J. Kessler, FAIA International Travel Fellowship will provide CAPLA students with transformative international learning experiences. Kessler ’75 B.Arch created the endowment to share the impact that global travel and study had on her own career.

Robin Shambach is one of 18 distinguished alumni honored during the University of Arizona’s Alumni of the Year Awards Ceremony on February 27. The award recognizes individuals for their professional achievements, public service, advocacy for education, volunteerism, and contributions to students, their college, and the university.

The Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA) has named Teresa Rosano, assistant professor of practice, the winner of the Distinguished Professor Award.

David Zuniga, a CAPLA alumnus ('23 B.Arch), secured first place in the 2024 AIA Designing Together Contest by transforming a napkin sketch into a bi-national park at the Mexico-U.S. border. His CAPLA education, emphasizing conceptual thinking and societal impact, played a key role in shaping his award-winning design and professional aspirations.

The University of Arizona has awarded Teresa Rosano, an assistant professor of practice in the School of Architecture, the Gerald J. Swanson Prize for Teaching Excellence. The award recognizes excellence in undergraduate teaching.

Alumnus Edward Marley, FAIA, '82 B.Arch was elevated to the American Institute of Architects (AIA) College of Fellows -- the institute's highest membership honor -- for his significant contributions to the profession and society and for exemplifying architectural excellence.

Nearly 180 College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture students honed their interviewing skills and forged valuable connections with potential employers during the 14th annual College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture Job Interview Fair.

In a recent story in Arizona Daily Star, CAPLA's Valerie Lane is highlighted for her new Tucson-based business partnership, the Urban Infill Project, working to help the Tucson community meet supplementary and affordable housing needs.