Professor David M. Chasco is a revered figure in the domain of architecture education, serving as the past director of the Illinois School of Architecture at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. His directorship was defined by a strategic overhaul of both undergraduate and graduate programs, marked advancements in study abroad offerings, increased research funding, and a surge in faculty recruitment and fundraising efforts. Previously, Chasco lent his expertise to Gunnar Birkerts and Associates and held a pivotal role as a design architect with DiClemente Siegel Design/Gunnar Birkerts FAIA. In 1994, he joined the College of Architecture and Design at Lawrence Technological University, ascending to interim dean and making significant contributions to the institution’s integrated design studios, which foster collaboration across disciplines. Chasco’s design portfolio is rich and varied, including projects such as embassies, cathedral renovations, performing arts centers, and mixed-use developments, displaying his capacity to bridge architectural design with functionality and innovation. He was integral in the architectural selection processes for landmark projects like LTU’s College of Architecture Building and the Peoria Museum and Caterpillar Visitor’s Center. His design prowess has not gone unnoticed; Chasco is a recipient of the New York Architectural League’s Young Architect’s Award, among other accolades from the Detroit AIA and the Michigan AIA for his outstanding leadership in both education and the architectural profession. He’s also contributed to numerous projects garnering AIA awards and has featured in industry publications for his work with Gunnar Birkerts and Associates. Chasco’s advisory role extends to master planning and he has served on the State of Illinois AIA Board of Directors. His dedication to international education is evident in his development of study programs in Paris and a design studio in Uganda, aimed at fostering global understanding and collaboration. As an alumnus of the University of Illinois, Chasco earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in architecture there and was named a Plym Fellow, an accolade recognizing accomplished mid-career architects. His professional and academic journey reflects a deep-seated commitment to nurturing architectural practice and education, underscored by a forward-thinking approach to the discipline’s evolving global landscape. Chasco currently resides in Huntington Woods, Michigan, continuing to shape the future of architecture through his seasoned perspective and innovative endeavors.