The program’s first year focused on integrating classroom theory with practical application. Founding dean Dr. Andrew Payne noted that students showed marked progress in critical thinking, public speaking, and graphic communication. This growth was bolstered by a collaborative studio culture, where students engaged with guest lecturers and participated in jobsite visits to connect with the local design community.

Looking toward the next academic cycle, the school is preparing for a pivotal NAAB accreditation site visit scheduled for November 2026. Dr. Tracey Tedder, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost, emphasized that the program’s early momentum reflects a commitment to innovation. With curriculum enhancements already underway, the administration aims to expand experiential learning opportunities for the incoming cohort, building on the initial success of a program situated at an institution famous for its own Frank Lloyd Wright architectural legacy.