In Profile: Landscape Architecture's Melissa Currie
Though some might believe that Melissa Currie, a native of Niceville, Fla., who spent most of her college years in Ithaca, New York, would feel out of place in the windswept South Plains, the new addition to the faculty in Texas Tech University's Department of Landscape Architecture couldn't disagree more.
"In addition to the good will and atmosphere prevalent in the department, the beauty of the campus really drew me to Texas Tech," said Currie, who joined Landscape Architecture as an assistant professor in September.
A magna cum laude graduate of Cornell University's landscape architecture undergraduate program where she focused on sustainable development, Currie remained in Ithaca for her graduate studies, earning her Masters of Landscape Architecture with a concentration in urban design in 2008.
Foundational Elements. Currie's thesis, titled, "Uncovering the Foundational Elements of the Design of Small Urban Spaces," examined how urban spaces such as plazas, open areas, town greens, and parks function and the value these spaces provide to their communities. Her research led her to identify five foundational elements that must be present in order for a small urban space (defined as three acres or less) not only to survive but to thrive as an integral part of society.
Currie's research interests continue to focus upon building our understanding about the relationship between man and his environment, both built and natural, through the fields of sustainability and urban design. She's especially interested in the impacts made by the built environment upon mental and physical health.
Currently teaching courses in the development of landscape architecture and landscape architecture grading and drainage, Currie said she feels at home here. "My experiences here in Lubbock and at Texas Tech have been very positive so far," she said. "I enjoy teaching very much and look forward to my classes every day. I'm thankful to be part of the Texas Tech tradition."
Professional Experience. Beyond her academic expertise, Currie has extensive professional experience in the field, as well. She has held a number of other positions in the industry, gaining experience as an independent consultant, project manager, an engineering designer, a land development consultant, and as a president and vice president of businesses located in the Southeast.
Currie, a registered landscape architect in Alabama and Virginia, has delivered presentations and papers at numerous professional and academic conferences, and is a member of a number of professional organizations, including the American Society of Landscape Architects, the U.S Green Building Council, the American Planning Association, and the Congress for New Urbanism.
Written by Sean Cleveland
CONTACT: Melissa Currie, Assistant Professor, Department of Landscape Architecture, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2672 or melissa.currie@ttu.edu
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