Student, Faculty & Alumni Profiles

Sara Ghaemi, who holds a bachelor's degree in architectural engineering from Iran, came to CAPLA to study the Master of Science in Architecture because it provides an opportunity to focus on sustainability and energy efficiency in the built environment.

Maryam Moradnejad, who holds a Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Construction Management from Iran, came to CAPLA to study the Master of Science in Architecture because of the opportunity to research emerging building technologies.

Assistant Professor of Architecture Altaf Engineer, who joined CAPLA in 2017, has always felt a deep responsibility to apply his knowledge and skills to address critical health, social and environmental issues affecting humans worldwide.

Liz Madsen, who is from Tucson, entered the Master of Architecture program after receiving undergraduate degrees in architectural studies and urban planning. She chose CAPLA in part because of the world-class Materials Lab.

Originally from China, Junlu Ouyang entered CAPLA's on-campus Master of Real Estate Development program in Fall 2019 after earning her undergraduate degree in geography from the University of Arizona. Here, she's found that working on actual projects in the field is very rewarding.

Lecturer in Real Estate Development and Urban Planning Brian Bidolli joined CAPLA in 2017. In addition to teaching in the Master of Real Estate Development program, he conducts market research programs for the School of Landscape Architecture and Planning.

Professor of Real Estate Development Arthur C. Nelson joined CAPLA in 2014. He is a leading researcher on transit-oriented development and how shifting demographics change housing demand and metropolitan development patterns.

Heather Shi entered CAPLA's on-campus Master of Real Estate Development program in Fall 2019 after earning her undergraduate degree in computer science and technology in China. Here, she's found real estate development finance to be particularly fascinating.

Adjunct Lecturer in Real Estate Development James Brian Marian began at CAPLA in 2018. With a background in commercial real estate development, he not only teaches but also strives to help students find internships and career opportunities.

Associate Professor of Urban Planning Kristina Currans, who has a background in civil engineering, began at CAPLA in 2017. She has a wide variety of research and other interests, with a particular focus on land-use development and transportation planning.

Senior Lecturer in Architecture Damon Leverett began at CAPLA in 2019. With a background in computer science and architecture, he brings a rich mix of architectural technology and systems design experience to the college.

“Everything I do as an artist and architect comes into my teaching methodology. I try to think about problems creatively and research them through a multitude of lenses. I expect the same of my students.”