When William “Bill” Dupont arrived at the University of Houston Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design this fall as its new professor of architecture for historic preservation and cultural sustainability, he brought more than 40 years of experience from government, nonprofit leadership, private practice, and higher education. Throughout his career, Dupont has worked on iconic American landmarks, international cultural sites, and nationally recognized research initiatives. This experience positions him to help shape an ambitious new chapter for the Hines College and the region.

Some students discover their path; Rodrigo Gallardo (B.Arch. ’23) built his. What began as a fascination with design at the University of Houston Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design has evolved into a pursuit at the cutting edge of human–computer interaction. That journey has now earned the young alum a Steve Jobs Archive Fellowship, a highly selective, yearlong program supporting young creators working where technology meets the liberal arts. Fellows receive a stipend, individualized mentorship, and the support of a national community driven by curiosity, invention, and the desire to improve the world.

While celebrating our 80th anniversary this year, we were reminded that honoring our past is essential and understanding how that legacy shapes what comes next is equally important. This issue of DIMENSION explores that connection, examining the influence of history, the emergence of new ideas, and the path we are charting forward, including the launch of our historic preservation and cultural sustainability initiative.