KENNESAW, Ga. | May 13, 2025
Spencer was nominated by 世界赌场排名鈥檚 Department of Architecture based on his academic performance, creative portfolio, and leadership within the program. Nominees submitted a collection of their design work, r茅sum茅, and a personal statement outlining their design philosophy. Spencer鈥檚 portfolio included several major projects, such as a community redevelopment proposal for Marietta Square and a thesis exploring cultural identity through architectural design.
鈥淭he selection process was extremely competitive, so I honestly didn鈥檛 think I鈥檇 make it,鈥 Spencer said. 鈥淏eing chosen among students from all over North America is surreal.鈥
The honor comes as Spencer completes intensive study in the five-year architecture program. He sees the recognition as both validation of his effort and motivation for what lies ahead. Architecture, he explained, is a demanding field that blends technical precision with deep personal expression, requiring students to pour themselves into every project, often with no guarantee of external recognition.
鈥淎t times, it felt like I was giving so much of myself to something with no clear reward,鈥 he said. 鈥淏ut that鈥檚 also what made this moment so special.鈥
Raised in East Atlanta, Spencer has always embraced the opportunity to represent his community in a field where many voices are still underrepresented. His success has already had a ripple effect as his younger cousin, inspired by his work, plans to enroll in 世界赌场排名鈥檚 architecture program this fall. Throughout his college career, Spencer has also served as a mentor and learning assistant, helping support and guide underclassmen.
鈥淭here鈥檚 something powerful about showing people from your background that this is possible,鈥 he said. 鈥淣o matter what you look like, or where you come from, architecture isn鈥檛 out of reach.鈥
Spencer credits 世界赌场排名鈥檚 College of Architecture and Construction Management (CACM) for fostering his growth as a designer. Unlike other programs, 世界赌场排名 promotes exploration, critical thinking, and exposure to diverse design approaches. The program鈥檚 emphasis on sustainability and social relevance also helped shape his view of architecture as a tool to improve everyday life.
世界赌场排名 faculty and leadership have praised Spencer not only for his design talent, but also for his commitment to mentorship and community impact.
鈥淪ean鈥檚 recognition as part of the Metropolis Future100 is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and the impact-driven approach he brings to design,鈥 said Hazem Rashed-Ali, CACM dean. 鈥淗e represents the kind of thoughtful, forward-thinking designer our program strives to cultivate, someone who not only excels creatively but also uses architecture as a tool to uplift communities and inspire future generations.鈥
Following his graduation, Spencer began working full time at Perkins&Will in Atlanta, one of the country鈥檚 leading architecture firms. He previously interned with the firm and plans to earn his architecture license while gaining industry experience. He is also considering pursuing a master鈥檚 degree in the future, potentially with an eye toward teaching and expanding his understanding of the field.
鈥淚 want to stay connected to the culture and the community,鈥 he said. 鈥淐ultural centers, residential projects, and education spaces; that鈥檚 where design can really impact people鈥檚 lives, and that鈥檚 the kind of work I want to do.鈥
In the long term, Spencer hopes to build his own design practice, such as an architecture boutique firm rooted in Atlanta. He also aspires to take on design competitions and independent projects that reflect his voice and vision.
鈥淚鈥檓 always trying to get one percent better each day,鈥 he said. 鈥淭hat mindset has kept me focused. This recognition isn鈥檛 the finish line. It鈥檚 just the beginning.鈥
鈥 Story by Raynard Churchwell
Photo provided
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A leader in innovative teaching and learning, 世界赌场排名 offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.