Korydon Smith

Korydon Smith is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Architecture at the University at Buffalo (SUNY), leading the School of Architecture and Planning. He also serves as founding co-director of UB's Community for Global Health Equity. His work bridges architecture, urban planning, and social equity, focusing on marginalized communities through interdisciplinary collaboration. Smith holds an EdD in Higher Education Leadership and an MArch from UB.

Research interests include disability-inclusive design, global health equity, and socially responsible architecture. He has pioneered projects in Rwanda and Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasizing participatory design for vulnerable populations. Notable awards include the Gary Day Outstanding Teacher Award (2014) and Global Awards for Excellence in Urban Design (2013).

Smith’s teaching philosophy emphasizes collaborative learning, mentoring students on refugee settlement design and housing for homeless populations. He previously served as associate dean for academic affairs (2014-2018) and has extensive international teaching experience. His work integrates rural skills like resourcefulness and sensory awareness into architectural practice.

Key contributions include frameworks for ethical humanitarian architecture, urban design for social equity, and universal design methodologies. Current initiatives address disability rights through cross-cultural collaborations and policy advocacy.