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Name: Michele Randel
Title: Architectural studies program coordinator
Department: Construction Management
Academic Degrees: Master of Architecture and Bachelor of Arts in architecture and religious studies both from Washington University in St. Louis, MO.

How long you have worked at Fresno State: 11 years

What is your most notable accomplishment in your field, and why was it important? I have worked in the industry for over 25 years as a licensed architect. I won a historic preservation award from the City of Fresno for the Old Armenian Town Project.

What are you most passionate about in your field and why? I am passionate about the new bachelor of science in architectural studies program. We piloted the major in fall 2021. Already, we have 77 official majors and have a large admittance for fall 2022. This program has been a project dear to my heart for many years. There is a great need in the valley for qualified architects and architectural interns. Many students who want to become architects have not had the opportunity to pursue it locally. We are currently the only four-year pre-professional architecture degree in the CSU system, which offers students an affordable option in their desired career path.

What is a memorable moment you had at your job? Seeing our first graduate walk across the stage.

What is a memorable moment you had in class, and what does that reveal about your teaching style? I recently showed my college architectural portfolio to some upper level students. I wanted them to see what we used to have to do to create drawings and what is more efficient now with the computer. They could not believe I did my architectural drawings by hand. We even inked them, with varying line weights. In class and with assignments, I try to show real examples of how things should or could be done. But their "you did not do those by hand" disbelief made me laugh about how different the industry is today.

What do you like to do for fun in your spare time? I like to read, play tennis and mahjong, and relax by the water. I enjoy spending time and making memories with my family and friends.

What is something interesting about you that most people don’t know? I am in the 2001 Hall of Fame from Washington University, which is the college where I played women's basketball.