James Smither

James Smither is Associate Professor in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University. A licensed landscape architect, his work focuses on sustainable urban form innovation addressing 21st-century neighborhood and regional challenges. Holds multiple advanced degrees: B.A. in Urban Studies (Roanoke College), Master of Urban and Regional Planning (George Washington University), Master of Landscape Architecture (University of Virginia), and Master of Urban Design (University of Melbourne).

Teaching encompasses:

• Urban planning theory and history
• Design visualization and graphics
• Digital tools (AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Suite)
• Freehand drawing and watercolor

Professional experience includes:

• Sustainability principles development at William McDonough's office
• Design leadership at Ehrenkrantz Eckstut & Kuhn Architects
• George Mason University campus planning
• George Washington University streetscape design