Richard Sucre

Degree Programs: B.S. Arch '00

Current Employer: San Francisco Planning Department

Job title: Current Planning Director for Preservation, Operations and Compliance

Programs

Bachelor of Science in Architecture

“Michigan balanced everything that I wanted: a large school with a strong academic and athletic program, a strong architecture program, and a superb campus.”

Describe the work you do. What are some of your recent and current projects that excite you? What inspires you about the future of your chosen field?
I manage the implementation sector of the San Francisco Planning Department with a particular emphasis on historic preservation and permitting. I am most excited about streamlining efforts to improve the permitting process in San Francisco. With Planning, there is always something new. Inherently, Planning is about the future, and provides a vision and direction for future growth.

Why did you choose Taubman College for your education?
Michigan balanced everything that I wanted: a large school with a strong academic and athletic program, a strong architecture program, and a superb campus.

How did Taubman College prepare you for your career? What experiences beyond the classroom (internships, research assistantships, teaching opportunities, or other external experiences) provided additional value?
Taubman taught me how to tackle a problem and how to work through solutions.

How has being part of the alumni community impacted you, personally and professionally?
Personally, I’ve been so happy to be back in Ann Arbor, and also to see many people who I grew up with. Professionally, it’s always strong to build community in your city, across your state, or even across the nation. You never know when you might need to draw on this network for your work.

What did you like best about attending Taubman College?
The People. I went to school with a superb class of people. All of whom have gone on to do superb things!

What advice or important lesson would you share with someone considering Taubman College?
Remember that college is not just about academics, it is about people and life skills. You are provided a strong framework at Taubman, whom are all there to support you.

Other thoughts, advice, or knowledge you would like to share?
Go Blue!