Arts and Architecture appoints interim head of landscape architecture

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Charles Andrew “Andy” Cole, associate professor of landscape architecture and ecology and the director of the E+D: Ecology plus Design research initiative, has been appointed the interim head of the Department of Landscape Architecture by Penn State College of Arts and Architecture Dean B. Stephen Carpenter II. The appointment comes at the recommendation of Stuckeman School Director Patricia Kucker.

Cole takes the reins from Eliza Pennypacker as the national search for a permanent department head continues. Pennypacker, who assumed the role in 2014 and previously held the title from 1994–2000, will remain on the faculty as a professor and the Stuckeman Chair of Innovative Design.

“I am delighted to help the Department faculty, staff and students continue the excellent work they do until we find a permanent head,” said Cole.

As a wetland ecologist with a background in wildlife biology, Cole brings an ecological understanding into the landscape architecture curriculum, which he believes enhances students’ thinking, and their designs. He teaches the basic ecology course for undergraduate students and incoming Master of Landscape Architecture program students, including plant identification, and seminars ranging from restoration ecology to watershed stewardship.

Cole’s research interests lie with restoration ecology as it applies to damaged landscapes and he has a long-standing interest in the creation of wetland ecosystems. His E+D initiative, which received funding from the University’s Strategic Initiative Seed Grant program, was born from his interest in how design decisions impact site and landscape ecology, particularly in the areas of biodiversity, energy, risk/hazard and water systems.

Cole serves as the chair of the Graduate Council’s subcommittee on new and revised programs and courses in the Graduate School. He is also a member of The Arboretum at Penn State’s collections committee.

The Department of Landscape Architecture houses the top-ranked professionally accredited Bachelor of Landscape Architecture program and a top-10-ranked graduate program, which offers a professional master of landscape architecture degree and a research-based master of science in landscape architecture degree. 

“Andy's service on the Stuckeman School leadership team has revealed his natural talent to lead the landscape architecture department during this interim period. I am pleased he has accepted this role,” said Kucker.