As part of the newly formed joint experiential learning initiative between the Whitman School of Management and the School of Architecture, the two schools have organized a summer event series at the University’s Fisher Center in New York City, centered on architecture and real-estate development.

Spearheaded by School of Architecture Dean Michael Speaks and New York City Program Director Angela Co, the events will explore the interrelated forces that shape our built environment and connect them to wider issues of equity and sustainability that face not only New York City but cities around the world.

What role do we play in how our cities develop? With this prompt, the series uses New York as a laboratory to explore complex urban issues, as well collaborative practice models within the design and construction fields.

Speakers will discuss a range of topics, including affordable housing, investment in the public realm, ways to build and finance greener cities, design entrepreneurship, the integration of design and development, and the role of mentorship in fostering equity and diversity in the building professions.

Additionally, the series aims to bridge different fields and generations by connecting current Syracuse undergraduate and graduate students participating in the Syracuse Architecture NYC Summer Program with the University’s diverse network of alumni and building industry professionals in New York.

“In a global context of environmental degradation, rapidly increasing urbanization and vast differences in wealth distribution, the ways in which we design our buildings and develop our cities is of vital importance for future generations,” says Co. “It is crucial that students—the young generation that will become future leaders—understand the connections between economics, politics and design, and leverage this knowledge to effect positive change.”

The events are required for students in the summer internship program, but are also open to students in the New York City architecture program, as well as a network of New York City-based Syracuse University alumni and professionals.

The series kicks off on Wednesday, June 5, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Fisher Center with a panel discussion on entrepreneurship in architecture featuring Ate Atema, founder and principal at Atema Architecture; Bruce Fowle (B.Arch. ’60), founding principal emeritus at FXCollaborative; and Yaiza Armbruster, founder and principal at Atelier Armbruster. Seating is limited; individuals interested in attending are asked to R.S.V.P. online.

For information on upcoming events in the series, visit soa.syr.edu/calendar. And if you’d like to be added to the invitation list, please email Xiaoyin “Shell” Li at archnyc@syr.edu.