Florida Southern College Welcomes New Dean for Innovative Architecture School

Florida Southern College, Lakeland, Florida, USA - Florida Southern College is making headlines with the recent appointment of Andrew Phillip Payne as the founding dean and professor of its new School of Architecture. This landmark decision paves the way for an architecture program that is set to kick off in the fall of 2025. Former President Anne B. Kerr laid the groundwork for this initiative prior to her retirement in 2024, underscoring the college’s commitment to expanding its academic offerings.

Payne comes to Florida Southern with a wealth of experience, having served as the dean and professor at Kennesaw State University during a pivotal period from 2020 to 2025. His previous roles also include chair and professor at Indiana State’s Department of Built Environment, giving him a rich background in design and academic administration. Known for his innovative teaching methods, Payne expressed his excitement for this new role, stating that he looks forward to harnessing the unique character of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed campus as a platform for creative learning.

Vision for the School of Architecture

Under Payne’s leadership, the School of Architecture aims to foster an environment that merges academic rigor with practical experience. The curriculum is designed to inspire students to become future leaders in the field of architecture, all while honoring the legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright through an innovative and accessible approach. Payne’s commitment to accessibility comes from his tenure at the Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University and his consultancy work through his firm, Studio GAP.

The campus itself is an architectural gem, boasting the largest single-site collection of structures designed by Wright, providing an unparalleled backdrop for students’ studies. According to The Ledger, this unique environment is expected to serve as a “teaching laboratory,” utilizing state-of-the-art design studios, fabrication labs, and a research center tailored for the students’ needs.

A Broader Impact

Florida Southern College has a rich history, established in 1883, and is recognized for its vibrant learning environment. The introduction of the School of Architecture is not just a new program; it reflects the institution’s ambition to cultivate skilled architects who will contribute positively to the community through architectural preservation and innovation. Dr. Tracey Tedder, provost and vice president of academic affairs at Florida Southern, emphasized Payne’s leadership qualities and dedication to creating a student-centered education that aligns with the demands of modern architectural practices.

Additionally, as noted in Third News, the school plans to gradually introduce a graduate component to the program by 2028, further expanding its reach and influence. Students can anticipate a learning experience steeped in both tradition and innovation, mirroring the aims of other esteemed programs like the one at The School of Architecture (TSOA), which is renowned for its focus on learning through experimentation and sustainability.

As Florida Southern College embarks on this exciting journey, the appointment of Andrew Phillip Payne signifies a bold step towards a future where architecture education melds with innovative practices and community engagement. With such a strong foundation and visionary leadership, the new School of Architecture brings with it the promise of cultivating the next generation of architects right in the heart of Florida’s educational landscape.