New UH Mānoa School of Architecture dean selected

Mo Zell

The University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa has selected Mo Zell as the next dean of the School of Architecture. She is set to officially assume the role on April 16, 2025, pending the posting on the March 20, Board of Regents meeting and final approval by UH President Wendy F. Hensel.

Zell brings more than 22 years of academic experience across four institutions, with the last 12 years spent in multiple leadership roles at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s School of Architecture and Urban Planning. She has been recognized for her work in fostering community partnerships and driving innovative educational programs.

“We are thrilled for the future of the School of Architecture under Professor Zell’s leadership,” said UH Mānoa Provost Michael Bruno. “Her expertise, vision and innovative approach will enhance the school’s impact on students, faculty and the broader community. With extensive administrative experience, a commitment to student-engaged research, and a passion for fundraising, she stood out as the top candidate to lead the school forward.”

Zell expressed her enthusiasm for joining UH Mānoa. “I am thrilled and honored to join the University of Hawaiʻi as the dean of The School of Architecture. SOA has a rich history of innovation and an incredible faculty and student body,” she said. “I look forward to working together to expand opportunities for students, strengthen professional and industry partnerships, and magnify ways design can address pressing challenges, from housing to climate resilience.”

Throughout her career, Zell has championed programs that connect architecture education with real-world applications. At the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, she launched initiatives such as the High School Design Build Summer Camp, which introduces students from underrepresented backgrounds to architecture, and the Design + Construction Initiative, which partners with organizations like Habitat for Humanity to enhance affordable housing solutions. While serving as associate dean, she launched the award winning externship program which connected students to week-long professional job-shadowing opportunities across the country. Zell recently served as president of the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA) from 2023 to 2024, where she emphasized creating inclusive pathways in architecture and expanding the impact of faculty research.

Zell’s current research was funded as part of a $3.4M Department of Energy Net-Zero Energy Homes grant, awarded to the City of Milwaukee. The grant provides incentives for a manufacturer to move to Milwaukee to fabricate wall systems for net zero housing, funding for the school to test a series of pre-manufactured wall systems, including energy performance, carbon impact, and cost, and gap financing for the construction of 25 net zero housing units. With this funding opportunity, Zell has strengthened the partnerships with industry and the profession and expanded research for students.

Zell earned her master’s in architecture from Yale University and her bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of Virginia. 

Bruno also extended gratitude to Interim Dean William Chapman for his leadership and service. “His dedication and contributions have been instrumental in guiding the School of Architecture, and the university looks forward to celebrating his impact as he transitions from the role and returns to the faculty,” he said.