An Architects Without Borders talk about social responsibility for designers

Portland State University and the Oregon chapter of Architects Without Borders are sponsoring a forum on social responsibility and engagement in the design professions featuring Bryan Bell, founder of the nonprofit organization Design Corps and editor of the recent book “Expanding Architecture: Design as Activism”. Bell will joined in discussion by  

Janet  Hammer, Director of PSU’s Social Equity and Opportunity Forum, PSU architecture professor Sergio Palleroni, Outside In clinic director John Duke, and Abby Dacey of Architects Without Borders and Boora Architects. The public is invited to join this group in a discussion of the potentials and challenges in efforts to create greater accountability and responsible engagement in the profession.

“Designers have the potential to benefit many more people than they currently reach,” the press release says. “No, this is not a call for pro bono work. Instead we are being challenged to play a more direct role in solving the critical social and environmental problems  facing the nation and our communities--and to incorporate outreach into our own  practice to serve what is an ever-growing client base with real needs.”

The forum, free and open to the public, is this Friday, March 27 from 12-1:30PM in PSU’s Shattuck Annex at 1914 SW Park.

If you're interested in joining the Architects Without Borders-Oregon chapter, their next meeting is April 22 at AIA/Portland's Center For Architecture at 403 NW 11th Avenue at 5:30PM. Meetings are held the fourth Wednesday of every month.

Comments

[andy powell]

this sounds great Brian -- can't make it, but I hope you'll be covering it!