Clemson professor named next dean of University of Arkansas’ Fay Jones architecture school

James C. Stevens, a professor at Clemson University and former director of its School of Architecture (2020–2025), has been named the next dean of the University of Arkansas Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design. He will assume the role on August 15, succeeding Peter MacKeith, who retires June 30 after 12 years as dean. Jim Gigantino, UA’s senior vice provost for academic affairs, will serve as acting dean from July 1 until Stevens begins. Stevens previously led the architecture department at Lawrence Technological University in Michigan and founded its digital fabrication lab, makeLab. He holds a Ph.D. in architecture from the University of Ferrara, a Master of Architecture from North Carolina State University, and a bachelor’s degree in historic preservation from the Savannah College of Art and Design. His total annual compensation at the Fay Jones School will be $310,000, pending approval by the UA System board of trustees. University of Arkansas Provost Indrajeet Chaubey praised Stevens’ expertise in digital fabrication and architectural technology, noting his appointment aligns with the school’s focus on innovation. Under MacKeith’s leadership, enrollment grew from 425 to 1,100 students, scholarships doubled from $135,000 to $288,000 annually, and the Anthony Timberlands Center opened in 2025 to accommodate expanded programs. MacKeith, who oversaw the school’s international recognition—including curating the U.S. Pavilion at the 2025 Venice Biennale—will continue advising the school’s timber and wood design initiatives. He emphasized the importance of small-group education, citing the school’s success with low faculty-student ratios. Stevens’ background in administration and digital architecture is expected to further the Fay Jones School’s growth and global influence.