Research-Based Approach to Architecture: Jackie Hogan M.Arch + MS.Arch ‘25
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.
CAPLA Lecturer and Alumni Win 2025 AIA Arizona Ideas Competition
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 Study Abroad: Magnolia Hilvert ‘25
Magnolia Hilvert ‘25, a College of Humanities student, stepped out of her comfort zone and participated in the CAPLA Study Abroad program last summer.
Founding ISAPD: Nathan Becenti ‘25 M.Arch
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.
CAPLA, Rancho Feliz build a brighter future at the U.S.-Mexico border
Bob Vint, assistant professor of practice in the School of Architecture, collaborated with the Rancho Feliz Charitable Foundation to design La Hacienda Feliz, a traditional courtyard-style dormitory in Agua Prieta, blending his lifelong connection to Mexican culture with a commitment to addressing systemic poverty through architecture, while also providing CAPLA students an immersive experience in border communities and the challenges they face.
Renowned architect Lesley Lokko headlines inaugural CAPLA Lecture Series
The University of Arizona CAPLA Lecture Series launches with renowned architect and academic, Professor Lesley Lokko, OBE, RIBA, as the inaugural speaker. The series explores architecture, landscape design, and social issues, promoting dialogue and inspiring sustainable, optimistic futures.
Building Inclusive Spaces: Lescilia Panzarella '28 BLA
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.
CAPLA Faculty Win 2024 AIA Arizona Design Awards
Teresa Rosano, Laura Carr, Michael Kothke were recognized for their achievements in architecture at the AIA Arizona Design Awards Gala at the Heard Museum in Phoenix.
Gather Light: Ava Beveridge '28 & Katie Sweiven ‘28 B.Arch
For the ARC 201 Design Studio, students worked on defining a shadow caster threshold in a publicly accessible space. The "Gather Light" project was led by professors Christopher Domin, Oscar Lopez, Stefan Mostert, Mike Silver, and Siri Trumble.
Indigenous Landscapes: An example from Hopi | Lecture by Michael Kotutwa Johnson
This lecture will lead to a greater understanding of how Indigenous people are now viewed as the gatekeepers of biodiversity. Indigenous people in their territories focus on something other than gross domestic product (GDP) but instead on quality and defined relationships within the context of where they live.
Improving water conservation and mitigating Arizona's heat island effect
The Arizona Board of Regents held a November showcase at the Arizona Experiment Station's Campus Agricultural Center in Tucson, featuring award-winning research from the University of Arizona and Arizona State University around new smart tree watering techniques.