Florida Southern College Names Founding Dean for New School of Architecture
Florida Southern College Appoints Andrew Payne as Founding Dean of New School of Architecture
Florida Southern College in Lakeland has officially named Andrew Phillip Payne as the inaugural founding dean and professor of architecture for its soon-to-launch School of Architecture, scheduled to open in fall 2025.This major academic addition follows the vision laid out by former college president Anne B. Kerr, who announced the architecture program prior to her retirement in 2024.
A Visionary Leader with a Proven Track Record
Payne brings a wealth of experience to Florida Southern. From 2020 to 2025, he served as dean and professor in the College of Architecture and Construction Management at Kennesaw State University in Georgia. Prior to that, he led the Department of Built Environment at Indiana State University, where he held roles as both chair and professor.“I am very excited to take on the role of founding dean for the School of Architecture on the Frank Lloyd Wright campus at Florida Southern College,” Payne said in the official release. “There are great opportunities for innovative teaching and learning in a highly engaging setting.”
Architecture at a Liberal Arts College—Rooted in Design Legacy
While few small liberal arts institutions offer architecture programs, Florida Southern stands out thanks to its architectural heritage. The Lakeland campus features the largest single-site collection of buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of America’s most iconic architects.This unique setting offers students direct immersion in architectural history and innovation—an ideal foundation for a forward-thinking curriculum.
A Career Built on Education and Universal Design
Payne’s academic career spans several top institutions. He has taught architecture design studios and support courses at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and served as an assistant researcher at North Carolina State University’s Center for Universal Design, where he led accessibility workshops and building evaluations.His background in inclusive, sustainable, and student-centered design aligns closely with the college’s mission to offer transformative education experiences rooted in both tradition and innovation.
