Kansas State University

K-State celebrates 50th anniversary of Ekdahl Lecture Series

Submitted by Thom Jackson

The College of Architecture, Planning & Design, or APDesign, at Kansas State University announces the 50th anniversary of the Ekdahl Lecture Series. This milestone will be celebrated with a series of special lectures and a discussion panel Oct. 23 and 24 featuring prominent speakers from the fields of landscape architecture, design and structural engineering. The lectures will take place in Regnier Forum, Room 1117 of Regnier Hall. 

The Ekdahl Lecture Series, named in honor of the distinguished architect Oscar S. Ekdahl, continues to serve as a forum for students, professionals and the public to explore innovative ideas that address some of the world's most pressing challenges. Ekdahl, a K-State alumnus, graduated in 1933 with a Bachelor of Architecture. His dedication to excellence in architecture and design is embodied through this lecture series, which annually invites thought leaders from across the globe to share their expertise and vision.

Lecture series schedule:

Wednesday, Oct. 23

• 10 a.m. — Laurie Olin will present "Then and Now | Reflections on Fifty Years in Landscape Architecture." Laurie Olin, a legendary figure in landscape architecture, will share insights from his vast career in designing public parks, residential gardens and corporate campuses. A professor at the University of Pennsylvania and founder of the renowned firm OLIN, Olin has left a lasting mark on the world of landscape architecture.

• 4:30 p.m. — Jenny Myers, design director at RIOS, will present "Boundary-less: The Interdependence of Design." With more than 15 years of experience in architecture, product design and environmental design, Myers will present her interdisciplinary approach to design thinking. Her holistic process has driven visionary projects from custom lighting collections to major urban libraries, positioning her as a leader in modern design innovation.

Thursday, Oct. 24

• 10 a.m. — Guy Nordenson, renowned structural engineer, will present "Working Structures" about his work in climate adaptation and structural engineering. As a professor at Princeton University and founder of his own firm, Nordenson has been at the forefront of waterfront development research, including his post-Hurricane Sandy contributions to New York's climate resilience efforts. 

• 4:30 p.m. — panel discussion and reception. Following the lectures, a panel discussion featuring all speakers will offer attendees a chance to engage in a dialogue about the future of architecture, design and planning. A reception will follow, providing an opportunity for informal discussions and networking.

Since its establishment in 1974, the Ekdahl Lecture Series has been a prominent feature of APDesign's public programming, attracting leading voices in architecture and design to Kansas State University.