For decades, the Lake Tahoe Basin has worked to balance preserving the region’s renowned natural beauty and recreational opportunities with accommodating the millions of visitors and growing communities drawn to the area. A team of researchers from the University of Arizona, University of Utah and Vancouver Island University is taking on that challenge through a two-year, $350,000 project to modernize Lake Tahoe’s sustainable recreation goals.

For Javi Barcelo, B.Arch ’27, architecture is deeply connected to place, culture and community. His City Immersion Scholarship gave him the opportunity to explore those connections firsthand in Mexico City, an experience that ultimately helped shape the direction of his capstone project.

Yamilkal Hernandez Sanchez is a first-year MSUP student speaking on his Peace Corps experience.

Lei is a new faculty member in the School of Landscape Architecture and Planning, who brings with her a fascinating research background with clear real-world implications.

Powerhouse: The Engaged Regionalism of Judith Chafee’s Architecture explores the visionary work of architect Judith Chafee and her approach to integrating art, architecture, culture and environmental stewardship in the Southwest.

For Hunter Bentley, M.Arch ‘28, a four-day field trip to Boston in February 2026 turned into the starting point for a summer internship that would reshape how he thinks about architecture.

We’re excited to welcome several new faculty members to CAPLA this academic year, bringing fresh perspectives, expertise and energy to our community. Join us in welcoming these talented educators and scholars as they contribute to our teaching, research and the future of the built environment.

Associate Professor of Urban Planning Kristina Currans is taking on a new role as Master of Science in Urban Planning Program Chair. She has a vision for the program centered around the voices of students and consistency.

Lyndsey Shafiei, a first-year Master of Architecture student, shares why she joined the Peace Corps and what she hopes to accomplish after earning her M.Arch degree from CAPLA.

Professor of Practice in Architecture Michael Kothke is the new program chair for the Master of Architecture program. He has a clear vision for the future of the degree, centering about community, understanding and being a powerful force for good.