Architecture and Design

“Civic engagement projects are an excellent way to assist our community partners, both in Allegany County and abroad, while giving the students exposure to real-world projects and stakeholders."

Professor William Dean

“This was most students’ first time designing a building for affordable housing. Students understood that their proposals would impact the community in a big way and took on the challenge of utilizing an existing historic building that could showcase the rich history of El Camino.”

EB Joyce

Jennifer Chiaino, a dispatcher at University Police, and Alan Vlakancic, an assistant professor in the Architecture and Design Department were the recipients of the Leadership through Civic Engagement award.

“I was honored to be given the opportunity to highlight SUNY Alfred State College, the department’s programs, and student activities such as the design-build team."

William Dean

Third-year Alfred State architecture students studying at the Sant’Anna Institute in Sorrento, Italy, participated in the eighth annual HOME Competition developed and coordinated by architect and author Duo Dickinson, FAIA. 

"My experience with the STAR program was profound in my understanding of architecture and my development in designing capabilities. When learning about the materials we use every day to construct a building we often forget the process behind making it. Every terra cotta tile has a long exact process to create it. Seeing the process has been eye opening and something I will never forget.”

Connor Welsh

“This project began as a question and evolved into something far more meaningful than I anticipated. It gave me the opportunity to think differently about water, change, and how we design for uncertainty. This experience will continue to shape my work going forward.”

Katie Petix

“SUNY represents academic excellence, and our students have worked tirelessly to not only excel in their academic studies, but also stepped up as community leaders. Congratulations to this year’s CASE awardees who’ve distinguished themselves amongst their peers through their work ethic, determination, and commitment to their fields of study."

John B. King, Jr.
SUNY Chancellor

"The 2025 class is full of passionate and self-motivated students who are particularly well-equipped to be successful within the field of architecture and design.”

Abagail Jones

“Our students demonstrated extraordinary collaboration and creativity in working with the Town and Village of Cuba. We’re excited that the community is eager to build on the ideas and designs our students produced, and we extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to this year’s project, enabling us to continue our commitment to local and regional civic engagement.”

Matt DiRado