Ayesha Husain

Why did you choose Taubman College?

I was drawn to U of M because of its academic excellence. It was also a good distance away from home for me, far enough to grow but close enough to visit.

Describe the work that you do.

I am a project manager, design manager, and office director in Populous’ New York office. I play an integral role in projects as clients’ point of contact and oversee the design team.

What are some of the projects that you have worked on recently?

I recently led the design team on TQL Stadium, a world-class, 26,000-seat stadium for MLS team FC Cincinnati, which opened in May 2021. As the project/design manager and client’s primary point of contact, I advised this new sports team on how to make its new home the perfect place for the team and fans through regular design meetings and guided the design team to deliver a successful project. The $250 million stadium is one of the latest intimate soccer-specific stadiums in the United States; it features a dynamic LED lighting system, a 360-degree canopy protecting seats from the elements, a fan plaza, and a safe-standing fans cheering section.

I have served as design manager for the Carolina Panthers Sports Performance Center located in Rock Hill, South Carolina and completed the renovation and modernization of the 200-seat grandstand theater for the National Baseball Hall of Fame, a new gem in historic Cooperstown, N.Y. I served as design manager for the 5.500-seat Daily’s Place Amphitheater in Jacksonville, Florida.

How did Taubman College prepare you for your career?

Taubman College helped me develop my design skills. I came out of the program with an excellent portfolio and background in architecture that enabled me to get a job right out of school in NYC. After Taubman, I went to GSAPP at Columbia University to complete my Master of Architecture.

What is an important lesson that has stayed with you from your time at Taubman College?

Take opportunity whenever you can.

What did you like best about attending Taubman College?

I loved the travel opportunities offered in studio and over the summer. Also, some of my best friends are people I met at the University of Michigan.