Congratulations, Class of 2019

Among the Class of 2019 were nearly 70 graduates earning nationally accredited master’s degrees in architecture or urban planning, 10 graduates of the school’s MS in Real Estate Development program, and three doctorates in urban planning. Nearly 90 students earned bachelor’s degrees, including the pre-professional Architecture BS and the BA in Environmental Design.

Students who demonstrated the highest levels of achievement and innovation in their studies were recognized during the ceremony. Awards were presented by academic leadership in the School of Architecture and Planning and professional organizations in the region.

MUP Best Professional Project: 
Tera Perilli

American Institute of Certified Planners Award:  
Jeffrey Rehler

Architecture Research Centers Consortium/King Student Medal for Excellence in Architectural and Environmental Research:  
Evan Martinez

Henry Adams Gold Medal:
Rachael Goff

SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence:
Dylan Burns

We are also pleased to announce that Christoper Romano, research associate professor of architecture, received the Gary Day Award from the Architecture Graduate Student Association. Emmanuel Frimpong Boamah, assistant professor of urban planning, received the Graduate Planning Student Association Outstanding Faculty Award.

Madeline Burke-Vigeland, AIA, principal of Gensler and dedicated champion for the school and Buffalo, served as keynote speaker for the School of Architecture and Planning's 47th Commencement ceremony. 

An accomplished architect and project leader, Burke-Vigeland’s portfolio includes a number of high-profile collaborative projects. Most recently she served as project director for Gensler’s renovation of the iconic Ford Foundation, now the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice. A native of Buffalo and chair of the School of Architecture and Planning’s Dean’s Council, Burke-Vigeland is a champion for the city and UB.

Burke-Vigeland celebrated the accomplishments - and potential - of the school's graduates through the lens of "See It Through Buffalo," the school's internationally exhibited film on its work in and with Buffalo:

"The fact of the matter is "See It Through Buffalo" is your story. While you have accomplished much...there is more to do. Perhaps you will devote your intelligence and creativity to the design of well-built affordable housing, or teach in an underserved community, or you will concentrate your expertise in advocating for those who have little say in the development of real estate...or perhaps you will run for president? Whatever you do and wherever you do it, I hope you will do it with the knowledge that you can make a difference." 

Dean Robert Shibley also presented Burke-Vigeland with this year’s Dean’s Medal, the highest award bestowed by the school, in honor of her inspirational practice and outstanding contributions to the profession of architecture.