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The College of Creative Arts is excited to welcome Elizabeth Martin-Malikian as the new Department of Architecture and Interior Design chair later this summer.

“I am deeply committed to the College’s mission and eager to collaborate with its distinguished faculty, dedicated staff, and talented students to advance our shared vision,” Martin-Malikian said. “ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University fosters an environment where creativity, innovation, and sustainability intersect to shape the next generation of designers and scholars.”

Martin-Malikian has lectured at several universities, including Kennesaw State University, Auburn University, the University of Edinburgh, and Columbia University. She also served as CEO and executive director for The Cosanti Foundation, an ecologically focused architecture nonprofit. Most recently, Martin-Malikian used her expertise to coach and consult higher education institutions and nonprofits.

Her extensive blend of education, practice, and leadership positions her to provide a new perspective for the department. Martin-Malikian serves as a National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) evaluator, and said she plans to incorporate what she’s learned about accreditation and education standards into this new role.

“I look forward to leveraging this background to expand partnerships, create new opportunities for students and faculty, and position the department as a leader in socially and environmentally responsive design education,” she said.

One key focus for Martin-Malikian when she assumes the chair position in July will be progressing the department’s curriculum to meet the needs of the industry today.

“By integrating emerging technologies, expanding cross-disciplinary collaboration, and reinforcing a critical and ethical approach to design, we will equip students with the skills and perspectives necessary to address contemporary challenges,” she said.

Martin-Malikian said she looks forward to “pushing the boundaries of design education” and “preparing students to lead with clarity of vision, a strong ethical foundation, and a profound sense of responsibility to the world around them.”

“The department has a distinguished history of excellence, and I am excited to contribute to its continued growth by expanding opportunities for interdisciplinary and experiential learning, fostering forward-thinking research, and deepening engagement with the built environment,” she said.