February 7, 2024
Ekdahl Lecture Series showcases renowned professionals in architecture and design
The College of Architecture, Planning & Design at Kansas State University will host the spring 2024 Ekdahl Lecture Series, featuring distinguished speakers who have made significant contributions to the fields of landscape architecture, architecture and industrial design.
The series is open to the university community and the general public. All lectures are presented at 4:30 p.m. in Regnier Forum, Room 1117 of Regnier Hall.
The series kicks off on Feb. 21, with a lecture by Keith Bowers, founder and president of Biohabitats. Recognized for pioneering nature-based design, green infrastructure and regenerative design in landscape architecture, Bowers is a vocal advocate for biodiversity conservation and ecological restoration worldwide. His lecture will delve into the intersection of biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation and environmental justice, showcasing his undercover mission to reshape the practice of capitalism.
On Feb. 28, Grace La, professor of architecture and principal of LA DALLMAN Architects, will take the stage. Internationally acclaimed for her work integrating architecture, engineering and landscape, La has been a driving force behind catalytic projects that recalibrate infrastructure and public space. The Emerging Voice of the Architectural League of New York in 2010, La will share insights into her approach to civic recalibration and the architect's agency in transformative projects.
Closing the series on March 27 is Sushant Vohra, an accomplished industrial designer based in Seattle, Washington. Renowned for pushing the boundaries of design, Vohra's lecture will provide a glimpse into his journey, from contributions at Teague and Astro Studios to his role as the founder and community lead of Young Designers India. With a commitment to bridging the gap between design education and industry, Vohra remains dedicated to shaping the future of industrial design and inspiring the next generation of designers.
The Ekdahl Lecture Series aims to highlight the potency of design and planning in addressing global issues. The series honors Oscar S. Ekdahl, a distinguished architect and founding partner in Ekdahl, Davis, Depew, Persson Architects PA, who received his Bachelor of Architecture from Kansas State University in 1933.