After seventeen years of leading the vision and mission of ACCAD as its director, Professor Maria Palazzi has decided to return to full-time teaching in the Department of Design where she will continue her distinguished portfolio of research, teaching, and advising. Her term as director ended August 31st, 2018.

All of us at ACCAD feel profoundly grateful for her dedication, perseverance and care in navigating our unique center. She has thoughtfully guided the teams of creative researchers, designers, artists, computer scientists, theatre makers, choreographers, performers, architects, musicians, and scientists that have poured efforts into the many inspired collaborations and exciting projects over the years. ACCAD’s research project page illustrates this diversity. It is a profound portfolio.

Maria inspired ACCAD to be a Center of Excellence, energizing our faculty, staff and students to rise to each challenge. It’s been a rewarding tenure for those of us who have worked for her.

We are pleased to report that Janet Parrott, current Chair of the Theatre Department has agreed to step in to a two-year term as Interim Director. A warm “ACCADian” welcome to Janet!