Over ten years, Dean Hoversten has led with vision and an unwavering belief in the power of design to improve lives. From doctoral education to global exhibitions, expanded facilities to transformative philanthropy, this decade reflects more than growth — it reflects momentum.

As the college moves into its next chapter, it does so on a foundation built thoughtfully, strategically and with enduring impact.

See a short reflection of accomplishments over the past decade.

2017

Elevating Scholarship: The Doctor of Design Program Launches

The founding of the Doctor of Design (DDes) program marked a pivotal moment in the college’s academic evolution. As one of the few practice-based doctoral programs, it positioned the college at the forefront of advanced design research.

2018

A Global Stage: Venice Biennale

Architecture faculty and students participated in one of the world’s most prestigious international exhibitions, the Venice Biennale, demonstrating how NC State designers can shape the built environment worldwide through creative designs of airports. The studio won the European Cultural Centre’s Best Architecture University Project Award.

2019

Strengthening Leadership: A Reimagined Leaders Council

The transition and revitalization of the Leaders Council ushered in a renewed era of strategic external engagement,  strengthening industry partnerships, enhancing philanthropy and advancing the college’s vision.

2020

Research Momentum Accelerates

Amidst a global pandemic, faculty secured increased external support and interdisciplinary collaborations, reinforcing the college’s role as a research engine.  Research expenditures increased by 99% from FY16 to FY20, and faculty formed seven new labs and initiatives.

2021

Expanding Access and Space

The launch of the Duda Visiting Designer Program brought  leading practitioners to campus for immersive engagement. Simultaneously, the college expanded its physical footprint, creating new opportunities for collaboration, making and innovation for industrial design students.

2022

A Historic Campaign Victory

The college surpassed its $13 million goal for the Think and Do the Extraordinary Campaign, raising $23.2 million. This milestone strengthened scholarships, faculty support, facilities and programmatic excellence.

2023

Innovation and Legacy

The Virtual Production Lab positioned the college at the intersection of design, technology and storytelling, expanding capacity in immersive media. That same year, the college proudly celebrated its 75th anniversary, honoring a legacy of design education while charting an ambitious path forward.

2024

Transformative Investment in Community Development

A $10 million gift named the Pappas Real Estate Development Program. This investment helps students to engage in equitable, community-focused real estate development while focusing on design as a public good.

2025

Human-Centered Futures

The formation of the Human-Centered AI Task Force reflected the college’s proactive leadership in shaping ethical and creative engagement with emerging technologies. The Natural Learning Initiative also celebrated it’s 25th anniversary of research and advocacy that connects design, children and the natural environment.

2026

Investing in the Future

With $8 million secured in giving commitments, the college strengthened its long-term financial sustainability. These investments ensure that future generations of designers will continue to learn, create and lead within a thriving and forward-looking institution.