The University extended the contract of Frederick Steiner, current dean of the Stuart Weitzman School of Design, to last for two more years until June 30, 2027.
Interim Penn President Larry Jameson and Provost John Jackson Jr. announced the extension for Steiner, whose deanship was previously set to end in 2025, on Nov. 7. Steiner, who is in his eighth year as dean, previously had his contract extended in 2021.
“Dean Steiner’s visionary leadership has ensured that the Weitzman School is well-positioned for ongoing success across every dimension,” Jackson told Penn Today. “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.”
Steiner has overseen several new initiatives at the Weitzman School. The average financial aid award per Weitzman School student has doubled over the past five years, according to Penn Today, and the school’s endowment has more than tripled.
Steiner has also led the advancement of the School of Design’s Inclusion and Belonging initiative, which aims to improve diversity within both the faculty and student body. The initiative integrated inclusion more deeply across curriculum, culture, and community engagement through the Postdoctoral Fellowships for Academic Diversity, Moelis Scholars Programs, and Julian Abele Fellowship in Architecture.
The renovation and expansion of Stuart Weitzman Hall also began during Steiner's leadership. The project will double the hall's current space to improve educational facilities, exhibition areas, and research spaces, with the aim of promoting increased collaboration throughout the school.
“I couldn’t be prouder of the work that our faculty, students, and alumni are doing to build a better future,” Steiner told Penn Today. “When you bring artists, designers, planners, and preservationists together, the possibilities are thrilling.”
Steiner is a School of Design alumnus, holding two master's degrees and a doctorate in city and regional planning. Before coming to Penn, previously served as the dean of the University of Texas at the Austin School of Architecture. Additionally, Steiner has taught at several other institutions, including the University of Colorado at Denver, Washington State University, Arizona State University, and Tsinghua University in Beijing.
Both Jameson and Jackson emphasized Steiner’s leadership and impact in ensuring the Weitzman School’s future success.
“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 told Penn Today.
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
Donate