Student, Faculty & Alumni Profiles

Abigail Power ‘26 B.LA recently reimagined the entry plaza of the Tucson Rodeo Grounds in LAR301, a studio led by CAPLA faculty Erik Schmahl and Kirk Dimond. Inspired by vaquero herding techniques, her design blends cultural history with ecological function through detailed plans, GIS mapping, and a physical model.

In ARC410F, Gabriel Garcia '26 B.Arch explored the intersection of architecture and ecology by designing with the Sonoran Desert’s spadefoot toad in mind. His ecological cookbook documents the species’ behavior, habitat needs, and environmental context, guiding a design approach rooted in sustainability and nonhuman-centered thinking.

Isabella Cleopatra de Sousa Proulx ‘25 B.LA recently completed an internship with Universal Studios in Orlando, where she contributed to the highly anticipated Epic Universe theme park, opening in May 2025.

Scott Owen Jr., '11 B.Arch, has been promoted to managing principal of the MG2 Minneapolis office. In his new role, Scott will be responsible for overseeing the programs division of Customer Experiences including leading the Entertainment sector.

Nathan Becenti ‘25 M.Arch is the founding president of the Indigenous Society of Architecture, Planning and Design (ISAPD) at CAPLA, where he champions Indigenous representation in architecture. Originally from Tohatchi on the Navajo Nation in Northern New Mexico, he earned his undergraduate degree from UNLV before gaining hands-on experience in high-profile Las Vegas projects.

Lescilia Panzarella '28 BLA is a first-generation college student and active leader at CAPLA, serving as vice president and secretary of the Indigenous Society of Architecture, Planning and Design, where she fosters Indigenous voices in modern design and pursues her passion for sustainable public housing and city planning.

Kirk Dimond, associate professor of Landscape Architecture, was recently named program chair for the landscape architecture program at CAPLA. Hear about his background in the field and vision for the future.

Bachelor of Architecture undergraduate student Anthony Rascon shares how CAPLA has helped him explore themed entertainment design, leading to an internship with Universal Creative in Orlando. With a unique blend of architecture and immersive arts, he emphasizes the value of interdisciplinary learning and advises future students to embrace diverse experiences within their studies.

Masters of Science in Architecture graduate Asif Zeshan feels that the architecture community is due for a transformation to keep up with emerging technology. The MS.Arch program provided him the opportunity to dive into research on the topic, bringing his passions to life.

Emma Hughes came to CAPLA from Phoenix and found the BLA program amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Hear about her CAPLA experience as part of the first BLA graduating class this May.

Hunter Pinke '24 graduated with his master's degree in real estate development and was named to the 2024 Academic All-America Second Team by the Intercollegiate Division of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association.

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.