New Architecture and Planning Dean Wins Regional Achievement Award for Sustained Contributions to Planning Practice

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- The New York Upstate Chapter of the American Planning Association has awarded Robert G. Shibley, the next dean of the University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning, the Michael J. Krasner Professional Planner Award.

The award honors an individual for sustained contribution to the planning profession through distinguished practice, teaching or writing.

Shibley, a professor of architecture and urban and regional planning, joined UB's faculty in 1982. Over the past two decades, he led a series of initiatives that today constitute the major part of the public planning framework in Buffalo Niagara, including "Building UB: The Comprehensive Physical Plan," the university's award-winning master plan; "The Queen City in the 21st Century: the Buffalo Comprehensive Plan;" "The Queen City Hub: A Regional Action Plan for Downtown Buffalo;" "The Queen City Waterfront;" and "The Olmsted City: the Buffalo Olmsted Park System Plan for the 21st Century."

He has made major contributions to other projects, including the Peace Bridge Neighborhood Improvements project, the Larkin District Master Plan, the Niagara Heritage Area Resource Study and the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Plan.

"Bob could work a decision-making process from the top down or from the bottom up," former Buffalo Mayor Anthony M. Masiello said. "He was as adept at dealing with executive personalities as he was working with the grass roots. People listened to Bob because Bob listened to them and showed them how their contribution was valuable and their views were heard."

At UB, Shibley's achievements include founding and managing the Urban Design Project, an award-winning center for the study and critical practice of urban design. He has inspired generations of students, teaching courses ranging from "Buffalo Niagara by Design," a large, undergraduate lecture for a general-education audience, to "American Urbanism" and "Sustainable Design: Democracy, Ecology and Urban Placemaking" graduate seminars.

Through his work and research, Shibley has made a lasting difference in Buffalo Niagara while forging lasting relationships with students and fellow planners. In a competitive field, colleagues have characterized Shibley as a professional who values others' contributions and is willing to share credit and creative opportunities.

Previous awards Shibley has received include the UB President's Medal in recognition of extraordinary service to the university and the James Haecker Distinguished Leadership Award for Architectural Research, one of the field's most prestigious achievements.

The University at Buffalo is a premier research-intensive public university, a flagship institution in the State University of New York system and its largest and most comprehensive campus. UB's more than 28,000 students pursue their academic interests through more than 300 undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs. Founded in 1846, the University at Buffalo is a member of the Association of American Universities.