Tsai Lu Liu, IDSA
Dean of the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design, Virginia Tech
Lu Liu brings his expertise from both the academic and corporate arenas as the new dean of the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design (AAD) at Virginia Tech. Liu (pronounced "Lee-yoo") began his leadership of AAD and its more than 1,700 students and 200 faculty and staff members on July 1, 2023. He will also serve as a professor of industrial design.
As Head of the Department of Graphic Design and Industrial Design at North Carolina State University from 2012-23, Liu fostered a culture of faculty and student research, established corporate-sponsored research and partnerships, and enhanced faculty and student diversity. New student internships, experiential learning, and professional career opportunities flourished at NC State under Liu's leadership.
Liu received the Southern Governors' Association's Innovator Award and has been recognized with several other awards for outstanding teaching and service. An active presenter and lecturer at many national and international conferences, Liu's scholarship and teaching interests include human-centered design, design thinking, inclusive design, new product development, and design education.
A human-centered innovator and entrepreneur, Liu spent the first 13 years of his career in private industry. He led and collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to create solutions in health care and telecommunications as well as the design, production, and marketing of semiconductors, toys, and electronic gaming systems.
Liu earned his Bachelor of Science from National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan and added an MBA from Georgia State University and a Master of Industrial Design from Auburn University. He began his career in academia in Auburn's School of Industrial and Graphic Design in 2004.
Balancing the Creative Equation: Harnessing the Power of Industrial Design in STEM
Education Symposium
Panel Discussion
August 25, 2023
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Ballroom
Join us as we dive into the dynamic relationship between design education and STEM, showcasing their inseparable bond in fostering innovation. We'll challenge traditional notions by celebrating design as an essential pillar of STEM, proving that advancements arise when analytical thinking and creativity intertwine. Our esteemed panelists hail from top institutions recognized for their cutting-edge design programs, where they embrace interdisciplinary approaches and nurture fruitful collaborations between design, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Prepare to be inspired as they share invaluable insights on cultivating creativity within STEM, propelling imaginative curricula, and championing the recognition of design's potential to drive progress in science and technology while enhancing user experiences. We'll reveal how industrial design is vital to breaking barriers in traditional STEM education and opening new avenues for inclusive and holistic problem-solving in today's world. Take advantage of this transformative discussion that will empower you to redefine the boundaries of design and STEM, paving the way for a future where innovation knows no limits.