Dear School of Design and Construction community,
It’s hard to believe that we’re almost four months into 2026! Another year has flown by and there are many student and faculty accomplishments to celebrate – giving us optimism that the year ahead will follow this trend.
Our amazing students continue to participate in various conferences (via industry organizations), competitions, and international study programs—locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. Experiences like these serve to enhance not only their current learning at WSU but also their future endeavors. As part of a land-grant university focused on producing well-rounded students, we know that classroom learning is undeniably important. However, these experiential learning opportunities can reshape perspectives and trajectories in a variety of ways.
In addition to all the great things the faculty and students are doing, it is a busy time in the school. We are searching for one new faculty hire in construction management (tenure track or career track). The process is progressing well with candidates soon on campus for visits. We are also preparing for end of semester events such as the architecture and construction management capstone, interior design and landscape architecture portfolio review in Seattle, and the graduation ceremony in early May.
Thank you for your continued support of the school. Your time and wisdom shared in the classroom or studio strengthens the excellent education we strive to provide to our students. The generous donations you provide enable us to offer resources that lead to student, faculty, and staff success. Our alumni, industry partners, and friends are instrumental to our success…thank you!
A new year ushers in new financial opportunities and challenges. Thus, I am continuing with the Director’s Challenge. This initiative is grounded in the reality that we need help to support our faculty and students to keep doing the great work we so greatly appreciate and respect. I encourage our amazing alumni, industry partners, and friends of the school to help us garner needed philanthropic support for our students, faculty, and staff. My personal commitment to match donations (between now and June 30th, 2026) up to $3,000 will continue as well. The School of Design and Construction is a truly special place with wonderful people. I am constantly impressed with the work our faculty, staff, and students produce on a regular basis…so much so, that I’m willing to contribute to achieving this goal. To learn more about this challenge, please go to the SDC Excellence Fund Page.
GO COUGS!
Jason B. Peschel
Professor | Director
School of Design + Construction