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Mario Schjetnan to Deliver Keynote Speech at BAC Commencement 2026

The Boston Architectural College (BAC) proudly announces that it will host the eminent landscape architect Mario Schjetnan as the keynote speaker for its 2026 Commencement ceremony on May 22, 2026. Schjetnan, revered internationally for his groundbreaking work in landscape architecture, will also be bestowed with an Honorary Doctorate in Design. This prestigious honor underscores his significant contributions to the integration of ecology and civic life through design.

The commencement ceremony will also honor three other distinguished individuals: Taniya Nayak, a celebrated interior designer and television personality; Lee Pelton, a leader in civic engagement and higher education; and Judith (Judy) Nitsch, a former Board Chair, reflecting the college's commitment to recognizing excellence in diverse fields that influence design and education.

The Impact of Mario Schjetnan

As the Founding Partner of Grupo de Diseño Urbano in Mexico City, Schjetnan's work has transformed urban landscapes and public spaces both locally and internationally. Notable projects include the Xochimilco Ecological Park, the Bicentennial Park in Mexico City, and significant restorations such as the Chapultepec Park master plan. His philosophy emphasizes the connection between ecological sustainability and the cultural narratives embedded within urban environments. Schjetnan's design ethos resonates with BAC's mission to promote resilience and equity through architecture, making his selection as a speaker particularly meaningful.

Honoring a New Class of Designers

This year's commencement ceremony is especially significant, as it happens in the context of BAC being officially designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). This recognition aligns perfectly with Schjetnan's role, as he embodies the global perspectives and inclusive excellence that BAC strives to advance. The president of BAC, Mahesh Daas, expressed his enthusiasm, stating that Schjetnan’s presence underscores the college's dedication to landscape architecture as an important discipline that supports meaningful urban dialogue and community integration.

A Vision for Future Generations

Mario Schjetnan articulates a powerful vision for the future of architecture, emphasizing that landscape architecture is not merely decorative but fundamentally structural and functional. He states, “Through design, we give form to how we live, how we connect, and how we adapt.” This sentiment highlights the interdisciplinary nature of architecture, urging graduates to innovate with imagination and generosity in their professional endeavors.

BAC's recognition of leaders who significantly impact the fields of design, public service, and education reflects its foundational commitment to fostering a community that actively shapes a more inclusive and sustainable future. This commencement ceremony not only celebrates the accomplishments of the graduating class but also reaffirms the values of creativity, service, and civic leadership integral to BAC’s mission.

About The Boston Architectural College

Founded in 1889, the Boston Architectural College has established itself as a premier institution focused on access, equity, and practice-integrated learning. The college prides itself on producing exceptional graduates through a model of education that is driven by outcomes. Currently ranked as the top Bachelor of Architecture program in the nation by the U.S. Department of Education, BAC continues to stand out among architecture schools while fostering a diverse and vibrant academic community representing over 75 countries.

In addition to architecture, BAC offers programs in interior architecture, landscape architecture, and design studies, as well as continuing education. Their commitment to experiential education ensures that students acquire the skills needed to make a lasting impact in the professional world.

The day of the commencement promises to be a momentous occasion, celebrating the fusion of creativity and responsibility in design and the dedication to uplifting and transforming communities through meaningful architecture. Join us in honoring Mario Schjetnan and the esteemed graduates of the Boston Architectural College in 2026!