NYIT Appoints New Dean of Architecture

Maria R. Perbellini has joined NYIT as the new dean of the School of Architecture and Design. A practicing architect skilled in digital design and an experienced administrator, educator, and researcher, she will report to Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Rahmat Shoureshi, Ph.D., and be responsible for strategic planning and administrative oversight, including the development of new graduate programs.

Perbellini comes to NYIT from Texas Tech University (TTU), where she was a professor and served as the associate dean for graduate programs in the College of Architecture. While there, she developed a Master of Architecture curriculum with four graduate certificates, as well as a post-professional Master of Science in Architecture program with specializations in digital design and fabrication, urban and community design, and design and health. She also coordinated the interdisciplinary Ph.D. program in Land-Use Planning, Management, and Design. Previously, she taught at the School of Architecture, University of Texas in Austin, and at Yeungjin Jr. College in Taegu, South Korea.

“Applications-oriented research and technological innovation provide the underpinnings of an NYIT education,” said Shoureshi. “Maria’s expertise in computational design, emergent material-based processes, and fabrication technologies align perfectly with our career-focused mission and no doubt will lead to even greater opportunities for faculty to engage our students in interdisciplinary research, national and international projects, competitions, and other solutions- oriented endeavors.”

““I look forward to working with NYIT’s exceptional teaching and research community, which is highly regarded and at the forefront of design practices,” said Perbellini. “NYIT offers a vibrant learning environment with a clear focus on pedagogical excellence.” She is particularly excited by how the School of Architecture and Design combines entrepreneurial direction with cutting-edge technology to promote student learning and to prepare graduates for responsible careers. “In this privileged position as dean, I am committed to carrying out an innovative and transformative vision that will build on our programs’ existing strengths, inspire new strategies for growth, and enhance NYIT’s distinctive profile and national and international preeminence,” she added.

Born in Italy, Perbellini holds degrees from Istituto Universitario di Architettura di Venezia and the Pratt Institute. She succeeds Judith DiMaio, who will remain at NYIT and share her expertise as professor and dean emeritus.

Learn more about Dean Perbellini