Design as disruption: Verda Alexander to deliver Ekdahl Lecture on Feb. 11

Kansas State University’s College of Architecture, Planning & Design will welcome Verda Alexander as the featured speaker in its Ekdahl Lecture Series at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, in Regnier Forum, Regnier Hall.

Alexander’s lecture, "Break the Practice — Why Design Needs Disruptors Now," will draw on her three-decade career in workplace design and creative leadership, including her role as co-founder of Studio O+A. Her work explores how designers can rethink traditional professional models and respond to challenges such as climate change, social responsibility and evolving cultural expectations.

Rather than viewing disruption as destructive, Alexander frames it as a generative force that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and reclaims creativity as a catalyst for innovation, joy and systemic change. Through examples of built work, advocacy and artistic practice, she will challenge designers and students to reconsider the boundaries of contemporary practice and their role in shaping a more equitable future.

“Verda Alexander brings a powerful voice to the conversation about what design can — and must — become,” said Michael McClure, dean of the College of Architecture, Planning & Design. “Her work exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking leadership we hope to inspire in our students: courageous, collaborative and deeply engaged with the world’s most pressing challenges.”

The Ekdahl Lecture Series is one of APDesign’s signature public programs, connecting students, faculty and community members with leading voices shaping the future of architecture, planning and design.

The lecture is free and open to the public.

— Submitted by Thom Jackson