As artificial intelligence transforms the design landscape, designers face a critical challenge: understanding the ethical, moral and practical implications of AI in the creative process. 

“AI is everywhere but there is not much discussion about also what AI can and cannot do or the ethics of AI, beyond copyrights” shares Tiziana d’Agostino, Assistant Professor of Design. 

Building a Framework for Ethical AI Integration 

This past Summer, NewSchool’s Chair of Design, Victor Nacif, has launched a new course, Artifical Intelligence for Design that tackles these evolving dynamics. Developed by Remy Bourganel, an internationally recognized expert in AI and design, and by Assistant Professor Dario Miticocchio, the course explores foundational concepts that build a solid base of understanding how to work with AI tools, from general frameworks to ethical considerations. Students unpack how systemic thinking and worldviews interact with AI and design all while building a framework on how to think carefully about the outcomes of powerful AI tools. 

“There is no doubt AI is going to be an integral part of the future”, states Dario. 

“Knowing what it can do, its implications and how to handle it is going to make students better professionals. At the same time, it’s important that they develop traditional Design skills to understand the process they are driving.” 

Through a series of lectures and case studies, students learn various options for integrating AI tools in their workflow, with the goal of maintaining creative control of the activity rather than letting the tools drive the design process. 

Rethinking Future Cities with AI 

The final project of the class is centered on future cities. Students choose a subproblem of major cities—such as mobility, housing, socialization, etc.—and with the support of AI, design a solution. The goal is for students to utilize AI to expand possibilities and inform decision-making while keeping the human-centered approach at the core of the design process. 

“AI will only support the creativity of a great Designer, Architect or creative,” Victor shares. 

 “It was not made to replace the creative mind of an individual, but to compliment other possibilities for consideration.” 

As the role of AI in design continues to evolve, NewSchool continues to prepare students not just to use these tools—but to lead the conversation about their responsible and ethical use.  

With over 23 years of experience in architecture, interior design, and furniture design, Richard Hess is an accomplished designer and educator who first joined NewSchool of Architecture & Design in 2020.   

As Director of Career Services, he’s played a vital role in helping students enter the workforce. In one-on-one sessions, Richard meets with students to understand their career goals, provide feedback on their resumes and portfolios, and ultimately, guide them towards the right steps to embark on the career path of their choice.  

His leadership has proven to be instrumental in helping NewSchool graduates land purposeful jobs in a short amount of time. Within six months of graduation, 91% of 2024 NewSchool graduates were employed in their industry and 100% of graduates from undergraduate programs in interior design, product design, graphic design, and construction management were employed. 

“There is a genuine demand for designers, architects, and construction managers,” he notes. “And we are fortunate enough to have a talented student body at NewSchool.”  

Richard’s Journey to NewSchool 

Richard’s career arc began at Auburn University, where he earned dual bachelor’s degrees in architecture and interior architecture. There, he developed technical skills and began nurturing a deep appreciation for how spaces influence the way people live, work, and connect.  

After several years of professional practice, Richard began teaching at the Design Institute of San Diego including courses in design studio, lighting design, and furniture design, as well as portfolio workshops. 

With the goal of becoming a stronger educator and mentor to the next generation of designers, Richard returned to school and earned a Master of Architecture at NewSchool.  

“My education at NewSchool enlightened me about the significant influence we can have as designers, extending beyond merely fulfilling client needs,” said Richard. 

Guiding Students toward Success

In 2020, Richard started working at NewSchool, leading design and architecture portfolio workshops. Three years later, he became Director of Career Services, leading the school’s efforts to prepare students with the skills, direction, and confidence needed to ensure a smooth transition into the architecture and design industries.

He also continues his tenure at the Design Institute, teaching a thesis course in interior architecture and design. 

A Holistic Philosophy 

Beyond his roles at NewSchool and the Design Institute, Richard is the owner and designer of Ilume Design, a modern furniture and design company based locally in San Diego. 

Over the years, his design philosophy has evolved to emphasize wellness and purposeful design—a philosophy that carries over into his approach with students as well.   

“I believe every decision we make significantly affects not only the environment but also the well-being of our clients,” he says. “Don’t design solely for aesthetics—strive for a greater purpose.” 

Impact through Purpose and Mentorship 

Richard exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose—as a designer, educator and mentor. His dedication to student success makes him an invaluable member of NewSchool and the broader design community in San Diego.  

“Richard has a unique ability to guide students with both insight and compassion. As a career advisor and design instructor, he not only teaches the fundamentals—he inspires confidence, creativity, and a true sense of direction,” shares Christina Orange, a career advisor at NewSchool and a former student at the Design Institute.  

“His impact at NewSchool goes beyond the classroom and into the lives of everyone he mentors.”  

Emi Nevara won first place in the 2025 Student Design Awards hosted by California’s Coalition for Adequate School Housing (CASH). Her design for a new campus at Albert Einstein Academy High School in San Diego, CA sustainably transforms an existing structure into a modern learning environment.  

Emi earned a Bachelor of Architecture in 2024 from the NewSchool of Architecture & Design. This project was her final thesis with feedback and critique provided by Buddy Gessel, Principal at DLR Architecture Group.  

Re-Envisioning Learning Spaces 

Emi’s design honors the site’s history and meets the needs of future learners. At the heart of her concept lies a bold vision: to create a learning environment that supports academic growth and inspires students to interact with the dynamic nature of knowledge itself. 

“This project is not just about reshaping a building—it’s about reshaping the way students interact with space, with one another, and with ideas,” said Emi. “I wanted the architecture to inspire learning, to encourage curiosity, and to reflect the energy of the school community.” 

Fostering Intellectual Curiosity through Design 

Emi’s design philosophy for this project drew directly from Albert Einstein Academy’s mission — to teach students how to think, fostering intellectual curiosity and independent reasoning.  

Emi’s design captures this ethos through an expressive architectural language. The building’s facade visually symbolizes the energy, diversity, and fluidity of student thought and was inspired by the movement of particles in Brownian motion—the random movement of microscopic particles suspended in a fluid caused by their collisions with the surrounding fast-moving molecules.                                   

Beyond aesthetics, the project integrates sustainable design strategies throughout. By repurposing a former research facility, Emi’s design is both cost-effective and reduces environmental impact.  

The campus also features adaptable interiors designed to support evolving pedagogical models, collaborative learning, and student well-being.                         

Recognizing Student Achievement at NewSchool 

Emi’s first-place win is a testament to her creative vision as well as her ability to translate abstract educational goals into a built environment that is both functional and inspiring, skills she honed during her studies at NewSchool. 

“We are incredibly proud of Emi and the impact her work is already making in the field of educational design,” said Amin Espandiarimahalati, NewSchool Assistant Professor and Fifth Year Coordinator.

About the CASH Student Design Awards 

California’s Coalition for Adequate School Housing (CASH) is the premier statewide organization promoting, developing, and supporting state and local funding for K-12 public school construction and modernization. As part of CASH’s commitment to developing future leaders, the Student Design Awards were established as a joint venture by the Outreach and Architects Committees. They recognize excellence in student work that addresses real-world challenges in school planning and design.