Springfield, Mo., June 4, 2024 – Drury has selected Joshua Nason as the new Dean of Hammons School of Architecture. Nason, a former Professor and Architecture Program Director from the University of Texas of Arlington, brings extensive experience in academic leadership, experiential learning, and curriculum development to the architecture program.
“Teaching design is curating a series of experiences that help students realize their authentic potential to positively impact the built world, humanity, and the environment,” Nason said. “In addition to skill-building and established truisms, it’s about discovery; helping students explore yet-to-be-answered questions with their own voices that advance architecture.”
Nason has a Professional Master of Architecture from Texas Tech University as well as a Post-Professional Master of Architecture from Cornell University. He has an established reputation as a collaborator and team builder who partners effectively with architectural professionals and local communities. He has served in multiple leadership roles within the School of Architecture at the University of Texas at Arlington, one of the largest design programs in the country.
“Professor Nason is an innovative educator, scholar, and academic leader committed to providing high-quality educational experiences that result in exceptional student outcomes,” says Drury University Provost, Dr. Beth Harville.
Dr. Harville believes Nason will contribute to the productive and welcoming culture at HSA, nurturing individuals, cultivating inquiry, and rewarding creative risk-taking. Honoring HSA’s established community, Nason strives to build bridges and advance the school and the field of architecture. With his expertise in curriculum innovation and faculty development, he will focus on enhancing instruction and engaging students. Furthermore, he aims to position faculty for success, leading them to continue fostering innovation and strong teaching. Nason believes architectural education is at a critical crossroads with technological advances necessitating a focus on critical thinking alongside professional training. Preparing students for a rapidly changing field, he sees teaching as an honor with tremendous responsibility and opportunity for impact.
The Hammons School of Architecture (HSA) offers a five-year first professional Master of Architecture degree fully accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Its setting within a small liberal arts university makes the Hammons School of Architecture program unlike any other. With a close-knit community of students, faculty, and alumni coupled with a curriculum encouraging exploration and community outreach, HSA students build a foundation that will support them throughout their careers.
To learn more about the Hammons School of Architecture at Drury, visit drury.edu/architecture/.
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Media Contact: Kevin Kropf, Ed.D., Executive Vice President of Enrollment Management, Marketing & Communication | Office: (417) 873-7390 | Email: kkropf@drury.edu