The Design Curriculum Analysis Program at Pratt Institute has emerged as a pivotal innovation in the assessment procedures of the Undergraduate Architecture department. Launched in the 2024-2025 academic year, this program introduces an engaging and critical evaluation process involving external critics, known as “Eminent Analysts”. These experts, chosen for their alignment with the academic year’s theme, are tasked with scrutinizing and enhancing the curriculum through their seasoned perspectives.

Each analyst is integrated into the studio’s culture, participating in midterm, final, and other significant reviews. Their role is not merely observational; they actively contribute to the studio’s dialogue, culminating in a presentation tailored to the studio’s focus. At the semester’s conclusion, a comprehensive feedback loop is established where the Analyst, studio coordinator, and department chairperson discuss insights and recommendations for future improvements.

This inaugural year has been marked by success, thanks in part to the diverse expertise of the 2024-2025 Analysts Cohort:

2024-2025 Analysts Cohort

Fall Semester: First Year Analyst, Nate Hume

Nate Hume, a Brooklyn-based architect and principal of Hume Architecture, brings a wealth of experience. His work features in esteemed publications such as Project, Log, and The New York Times. Hume’s exhibitions have graced venues like The Druker Gallery and Yale Architecture Gallery. As the creator of Suckerpunch, a platform exploring contemporary architecture and art, Hume’s contributions have been invaluable.

Fall Semester: Second Year Analyst, Paul Preissner

Paul Preissner, of Paul Preissner Architects in Oak Park, Illinois, served as commissioner and co-curator of the United States pavilion at the 17th International Architecture Exhibition – la Biennale di Venezia. His literary contributions include Kind of Boring: Canonical Work and Other Visible Things Meant to Be Viewed as Architecture and American Framing: The Same Something for Everyone.

Spring Semester: Third Year Analyst, Hana Kassem

Hana Kassem, Principal at KPF, is renowned for her human-centric design approach. Her focus on sustainability, resiliency, and wellness is evident in her work and teaching at Parsons. She serves on the Van Alen Institute and the AIANY Board of Trustees and is the Founding Chair of the AIANY annual Leaning Out | Women in Architecture panel.

Spring Semester: Degree Project Analyst, Michael Young

Michael Young, an Associate Professor at The Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture at the Cooper Union, is celebrated for his works, The Estranged Object and Reality Modeled After Images. His practice, Young & Ayata, boasts numerous accolades, including the Progressive Architecture award and the AIANY Honor Award.

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