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APDesign Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Ekdahl Lecture Series - October 23 & 24

The College of Architecture, Planning & Design (APDesign) at Kansas State University is proud to announce the 50th Anniversary of the Ekdahl Lecture Series. This milestone will be celebrated with a series of special lectures and a discussion panel from October 23 to October 24, 2024, featuring prominent speakers from the fields of landscape architecture, design, and structural engineering.

The Ekdahl Lecture Series, named in honor of the distinguished architect Oscar S. Ekdahl, continues to serve as a forum for students, professionals, and the public to explore innovative ideas that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Ekdahl, a Kansas State University alumnus, graduated in 1933 with a Bachelor of Architecture. His dedication to excellence in architecture and design is embodied through this lecture series, which annually invites thought leaders from across the globe to share their expertise and vision.

Schedule of Events:

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

Laurie10:00 AM – Laurie Olin, FASLA | The Olin Studio

A legendary figure in landscape architecture, will share insights from his vast career in designing public parks, residential gardens, and corporate campuses. A professor at the University of Pennsylvania and founder of the renowned firm OLIN, Olin has left a lasting mark on the world of landscape architecture.

 

Jenny4:30 PM – Jenny Myers | RIOS
With over 15 years of experience in architecture, product design, and environmental design, Myers will present her interdisciplinary approach to design thinking. Her holistic process has driven visionary projects from custom lighting collections to major urban libraries, positioning her as a leader in modern design innovation.

 

Thursday, October 24, 2024

Guy10:30 AM – Guy Nordenson | Guy Nordenson and Associates

Renowned structural engineer Guy Nordenson will deliver a lecture on his work in climate adaptation and structural engineering. As a professor at Princeton University and founder of his own firm, Nordenson has been at the forefront of waterfront development research, including his post-Hurricane Sandy contributions to New York’s climate resilience efforts.

 

Panel Discussion and Reception – Following the lectures, a panel discussion featuring all speakers will offer attendees a chance to engage in a dialogue about the future of architecture, design, and planning. A reception will follow, providing an opportunity for informal discussions and networking.

These events promise to inspire students, faculty, professionals, and the public alike, as they explore the role of design and architecture in shaping a sustainable future.

About the Ekdahl Lecture Series

Since its establishment in 1974, the Ekdahl Lecture Series has been a prominent feature of APDesign’s public programming, attracting leading voices in architecture and design to Kansas State University. The series honors Oscar S. Ekdahl, whose passion for innovation continues to inspire new generations of architects and designers.

 

Ekdahl Lecture Series History