Fritz Steiner’s service as Weitzman School of Design dean at Penn is extended

Frederick “Fritz” Steiner’s tenure as dean of the Stuart Weitzman School of Design at the University of Pennsylvania is being extended an additional two years through June 30, 2027.

The announcement was made today by Penn Interim President J. Larry Jameson and Provost John L. Jackson Jr. and is subject to Board of Trustees approval. It follows a review of Steiner’s accomplishments, along with an examination of emerging and strategic opportunities for the Weitzman School.

“Dean Steiner has been an exceptional leader and advocate for the Weitzman School of Design and its innovative programs,” Jameson said. “We are delighted that he will continue to build on these successes over the next few years and prepare the School for an even brighter future.”

Jameson said Steiner has adeptly managed the School’s financial resources, spearheading efforts to significantly grow funds for students, faculty, facilities, and school operations. He has also been instrumental in advancing diversity and inclusion efforts, with increased representation of underrepresented minority faculty and students, while fostering a collegial and inclusive environment.

Among recent achievements:

• An impressive funding and revenue record: the School’s endowment has more than tripled under his leadership, with significant growth in sponsored research awards, student fellowships, and financial aid funding. In particular, the School has doubled the average financial aid award per student over the past five years.

• The advancement of the School’s Inclusion and Belonging initiative: both the standing faculty and student body have become significantly more diverse, with increased attention to inclusion and belonging across the curriculum, culture, and community engagement.

• The renovation and expansion of Stuart Weitzman Hall: this project will double existing space and enhance programmatic and educational facilities, with more dedicated space for exhibitions, studios, and research, all of which will lead to increased opportunities for collaboration across the School.

“Dean Steiner’s visionary leadership,” Jackson said, “has ensured that the Weitzman School is well-positioned for ongoing success across every dimension. His many accomplishments reflect his approachable and supportive leadership style, which have positively impacted such key areas as faculty recruitment, infrastructure renewal, donor and alumni stewardship, and student support.”

“I couldn’t be prouder of the work that our faculty, students, and alumni are doing to build a better future,” said Steiner, who holds the Paley Professorship and teaches in the departments of city and regional planning and landscape architecture. “When you bring artists, designers, planners, and preservationists together, the possibilities are thrilling.”