Elgin Cleckley

Elgin Cleckley is an Associate Professor of Architecture and Undergraduate Program Director at the University of Virginia's School of Architecture, leading _mpathic design—a multi-award-winning pedagogy, initiative, and professional practice focused on creating inclusive spaces through community engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Education:

• Princeton University, Master of Architecture
• Fontainebleau School of Visual Arts, Fontainebleau, France
• University of Virginia, Bachelor of Science in Architecture

His research pioneers empathic design methodologies that bridge architecture, social justice, and health. Key areas include inclusive spatial design, museum innovation (e.g., Weston Family Innovation Centre), and architectural pedagogy that integrates health equity and racial justice. Collaborations span UVa’s School of Medicine, Equal Justice Initiative, and global institutions, emphasizing co-creation with marginalized communities.

Scientific Awards:

• UVa’s Alumni Board of Trustees Teaching Award (highest honor for Assistant Professors)
• UVa’s School of Architecture Research + Scholarship Award
• ACSA Award for Creative Achievement, Diversity Achievement, and Faculty Design (x2)
• Dumbarton Oaks Mellon Fellowship at Harvard University
• MacDowell, Loghaven, Art Omi, Anderson Center, and Good Hart Fellowships
• US Department of Education Blue Ribbon Award
• AIA Virginia Award

Cleckley directs _mpathic design’s grant-funded projects, including an NEA Grant for his book Empathic Design: Perspectives on Creating Inclusive Spaces (Island Press). His practice advises UVa students while partnering with Dartmouth, Farmers Footprint, Albemarle County Public Schools, and the City of Charlottesville on the Memorial for Peace and Justice. Current grants support permanent installations at the Royal Museum Greenwich and upcoming projects at the Charles Wright African American Museum.

_mpathic design operates as a transdisciplinary lab, with works exhibited at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History and Toronto Metropolitan University. The initiative maintains active teams collaborating with UVa’s Center for Community Partnerships and international design boards, focusing on future projects through 2029 including the Royal Museum Greenwich’s National Maritime Museum expansion.