The KPF Principal participated as a panelist in “Catalysts for Change: Designing Innovation Hubs That Bridge Higher Ed & Industry” at the event, which took place on October 8 at the CUNY Graduate Center in New York City.
The Commercial Observer Higher Education Forum convenes leaders from architecture, academia, and development to explore how the built environment is shaping the future of learning. This year’s event addressed the evolving needs of higher education institutions, with sessions focused on innovation hubs, adaptive reuse, sustainable infrastructure, and inclusive placemaking. Claudia joined Ivy Schultz, Director of Entrepreneurship at Columbia University, and Christine Galib, Director of Advancing Photonics Technologies at Princeton, to discuss strategies for designing “innovation hubs,” dynamic academic spaces where experiential learning, interdisciplinary research, and entrepreneurial vision thrive. The conversation was moderated by Sean Scuderi, Partner and Vice Chair of Tarter Krinsky & Drogin LLP.
Claudia brings strategic leadership and a hands-on approach to every project, guiding teams from concept through completion. Her portfolio includes impactful work for academic and commercial clients, such as the University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit, which expands institutional reach and showcases science and technology. Claudia’s experience leading the delivery of complex projects—including 30 Hudson Yards, Meta Farley, and the Museum of Modern Art—reflects her commitment to creating collaborative environments that enhance the well-being and success of every user.
