Renee Chow to step down as CED dean in 2026
William W. Wurster Dean of the College of Environmental Design Renee Y. Chow announced her decision to step down as dean at the end of her current five-year term on June 30, 2026. Prior to being named dean of the college, she served as acting dean and as chair of the Department of Architecture.
Chow revitalized the college following COVID-19, overseeing the return of students as well as the hiring of a large number of exceptional new faculty and staff. During her tenure, she has elevated the teaching mission of the college by increasing tech access support for undergraduates and fellowship support for professional and research graduate students.
Under Chow’s leadership, faculty research support, revenue-generating programs, and philanthropic support all increased. She also secured the largest gift in the history of the college, which supports tuition-free fellowships for master’s students who commit to social practice careers upon graduation.
In the coming year, Chow will continue work on several key initiatives. Among ongoing efforts, she plans to expand undergraduate technology access, raise faculty research seed funding, and elevate the college’s profile, especially its cutting-edge research in climate-resilient materials, environmental risk adaptation, urban analytics, and housing innovation.
“It has been a distinct honor to serve as dean of CED. Every day, I am inspired by the exceptional work of our CED community," says Chow. "Together, we have strengthened the college, deepened its mission, and expanded the impact of environmental design."
"I'm not going anywhere just yet. We still have much to accomplish over the next 16 months and I’m committed to supporting our vibrant CED community, world-class faculty, talented students, and dedicated alums."
Campus will launch an international search for a new dean in the coming weeks.