School of Architecture series accentuates programs, research

Informal salon gatherings are being held on Thursdays throughout the month of February in the school's courtyard to highlight graduate programs and research by faculty members and students. The sessions are open to the entire University of Miami community. How does Miami-Dade County prioritize the need for resilient projects throughout the county? How has the COVID-19 pandemic changed the real estate market in South Florida? What kind of building materials can be used to withstand the ravages of climate change? All these are issues relevant to University of Miami School of Architecture students and many others in the University community. That is one of the reasons why the school has launched a series of gatherings to highlight its graduate programs as well as the research being carried out by faculty members and students. These salons­-the brainchild of Sonia Chao, research associate professor and associate dean of research-offer an informal gathering spot to exchange ideas and network. "It is an opportunity to come together as a community to discuss issues that we know to be relevant not only to our profession but also to all of those we engage with across disciplines and in our region and to highlight interdisciplinary investigations and actions,” Chao said. "These are occasions to celebrate current research endeavors while we reconnect or connect with our peers, students, alumni, and community.