THE ROBERT R. TAYLOR
SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE AND CONSTRUCTION SCIENCE
ARCHITECTURE AND CONSTRUCTION SCIENCE
The Robert R. Taylor School of Architecture and Construction Science focuses on producing competent professionals able to assume leadership roles in creating livable communities. The school, through its Department of Architecture and Department of Construction Science, follows the founding policy of Tuskegee University - “Learning to do by doing.” The founding leader of the school, Robert R. Taylor, set the standard for the program — he recruited leading architects of his time from major schools and developed a curriculum at Tuskegee similar in some ways to those offered at his alma mater Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (where he was the first black graduate). Many of the current campus buildings represent the most significant collection of historic buildings designed and built by the students under the direction of Taylor’s faculty. The Department of Architecture provides training in the art and science of architectural design. The Department of Construction Science provides professional training in building construction management. Employing the latest and advanced technology, techniques and knowledge, students are provided a sound scientific and technical foundation, which employs the latest techniques and knowledge of the discipline. Their education also provides them with a broad socio-humanistic background to furnish their professional skills.
“ We can no longer rely on new locations and old methods. Incorporating Integrated Project Delivery and Sustainable Practice principles, we can help ensure that communities have appropriate environments – now and in the future.” RI C H A R D K . D O Z IE R , D .ARCH . AIA, D E AN
MISSION
Although both of the Departments of Architecture and Construction Science originated in trade and vocational training, the mission today is to develop competent practitioners in the architectural and construction professions who are capable of assuming leadership roles in shaping communities. These programs endeavor to develop professionals with an appreciation for the humanistic (social, psychological and physical) aspects of a building problem, as well as other factors such as health, safety, welfare and economic feasibility. In particular, the architecture proÂgram is founded on the belief in the power of architecture to uplift the human condition and give form to society’s highest aspirations. The school embraces a total immersion in the concept of sustainÂability, meaning there is focus on the responsibility to be stewards of the environment, that is, the decision to build should reflect the symbiotic relationship with the ethereal and ephemeral aspects of humanity while also responding to the permanent results of the design/build process. Additionally, the school places an emphasis on the concept of Integrated Project Delivery, which requires total integration of professionals, materials, resources and the future.
FUNDING PRIORITIES
Advancing the existing knowledge of sustainable design, building methods, materials and systems will require a dramatic investment in faculty, support staff, shop facilities, research laboratories and digital fabrication capability. The first concern is the need for an expanded and upgraded building to facilitate the school’s programs— both academic activities on campus and expanded extension services to the community. A second major concern is the development and continued expansion of innovative approaches in the development of an advanced digital learning environment including visiting faculty and student fellowships. Given these priorities, the school seeks to raise $17.5 million. Endowed Chairs and Professorships
$4.8 Million
The addition of endowed chairs, distinguished professorships, visiting professorships and lectureships would dramatically enhance the school’s capability to provide leadership in the region and the nation in the education of high quality minority architecture and construction professionals. Specifically, the school would seek endowed chairs in architectural history, integrated project delivery in construction, alternative materials and systems, and service learning. Professorships and lectureships would include the areas of architecture practice, digital technology and construction management. Facilities Upgrades
$6.7 Million
The school must update its facilities to meet current standards for architecture and construction science education. Not only do the current buildings in use require maintenance, the school also needs facilities and equipment for a new Computer/Building Information Modeling/Visualization laboratory capable of three-dimensional representation of details and spaces, digital classroom upgrades and video conferencing. The school also proposes to create a new building technology archives and gallery. A New Robert R. Taylor Center of Excellence in Design and Construction
$3.5 Million
The development of the Robert R. Taylor Center of Excellence in Design and Construction would enable the school to fulfill its role as a leader for education as well as a provider of essential services to the community. The center would provide local and distance learning opportunities for continuing education of professionals and craftsmen, disseminate design and building information and education, and become a clearinghouse for skilled service providers willing to volunteer to help disadvantaged communities. Following the development of a permanent site for the center, Mobile Resources Response Units would be utilized to respond to situations beyond the campus community, providing design and construction assistance to impoverished and disadvantaged citizens in the Black Belt of Alabama. Endowed Scholarships
$2.5 Million
In order to recruit and retain competitive, high-quality students, the school must have the financial resources to provide incentives to attract those students to enroll in its programs. The fact is that the majority of students in the school require financial assistance.
Tuskegee University is today poised on the brink of reaching yet another milestone in its stellar history, as we prepare to join the ranks of premier research universities in the world. In order to attain this goal we are embarking on a major capital campaign to raise $250 million – “Programmed for Excellence.” Of major importance to this campaign is the support of the Tuskegee University Robert R. Taylor School of Architecture and Construction Sciences and its programs, which are integral to our students’ overall educational experience.
C A M PA I G N F O R
Giving to the Tuskegee University Robert R. Taylor School of Architecture and Construction Science and the “Programmed for Excellence� Campaign If you have an interest in making a contribution in support of the Tuskegee University Robert R. Taylor School of Architecture and Construction Science, a representative will work with you and your advisers to assure that your gift is the greatest possible benefit to you and the university. Naming opportunities are available in recognition of major gifts to the college, and a university representative would be happy to explore those opportunities with you. For more information, please contact: Virgil E. Ecton Vice President for Federal Affairs and Director of the Capital Campaign 202-863-9384 vecton@mytu.tuskegee.edu Or Tuskegee University Office of Development 326 Kresge Center Tuskegee, Alabama 36088 334-727-8540 334-727-8195 www.tuskegee.edu