Elizabeth O'Donnell

Elizabeth O’Donnell is a Distinguished Adjunct Professor at The Cooper Union’s Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture. She has been a faculty member since 1984, teaching courses like Structures I and II, and Design III. Her administrative roles include serving as Associate Dean for 11 years. Her expertise spans structural systems, adaptive reuse of buildings, and public art integration, evidenced by projects such as the BAG ONE ARTS BUILDING and collaborations with artists like Yoko Ono.

• Education: B.Arch from The Cooper Union; studies at University of Minnesota and Antioch College; M.Ed (completed 2014, City University of New York).

Her research and practice emphasize sustainable design and urban renewal. She has presented at conferences including the World Energy Forum (Dubai) and Imagining America, and contributed to initiatives like the Dubai Forum and the New Museum’s Ideas City festivals. She currently serves on the Zoning Commission for Taghkanic, New York, focusing on rural economic development and environmental protection.

• Awards: Design Excellence (AIA NYC), Design Distinction (International Design).

Professionally, she has designed residential lofts, schools, and non-profit spaces, with a focus on adaptive reuse. She advises Sweeten, a design-construction platform, and participates in design reviews at institutions like Pratt Institute and Barnard College.