Professor provides $300k planned gift to Architecture, Urban Planning + Design

Donation will help advance the design disciplines and support department projects

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The University of Missouri-Kansas City and the UMKC Foundation announce a $300,000 planned gift from Theodore Seligson, Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (FAIA) and visiting professor in the Department of Architecture, Urban Planning + Design.

The gift will supplement The Seligson Fund that was established in 2010 in Seligson’s honor by his friends and colleagues. The purpose of the fund is to enhance the education of the design disciplines in the department and to provide financial assistance for projects that support its mission, including lectures, colloquiums and visiting design teachers.

“This gift will support an important aspect of the AUP+D program, which serves Kansas City and the surrounding community in architecture and urban planning,” said UMKC Chancellor Leo E. Morton. “The funding can address issues of the built environment, including architecture and architectural history, as well as other aspects of the design disciplines.”

Nationally known for his achievements in architecture, urban design and higher education in Kansas City, Seligson has committed his life and career to advancing architectural practice, education, the arts and service to the community for more than 40 years. He served as principal and designer at his Kansas City, Mo.-based architecture, urban design and interior design firm. The firm is known as one of the most innovative design practices in the Midwest.

He has been honored many times for his work and influence on the design disciplines, both locally and nationally. With a degree from Washington University in St. Louis and prior to establishing his firm, he was designer for Kivett and Myers – a well-known Kansas City architectural firm. The architect for UMKC’s Katz Hall was Kivett and Myers, and Katz now houses AUP+D at 5005 Rockhill Rd.

“The department salutes and thanks Ted for his enthusiasm and unwavering support of our department’s mission and goals,” said Joy D. Swallow, associate professor and department chair. “This significant gift will ensure that we will keep our focus on what is important for our students, faculty and community partners now and in the future.”

“It also is our intention to inspire others to join me in supporting this important endeavor,” said Seligson.

If you would like to donate to the Seligson Fund, contact Phil Watson, director of development and gift planning, at 816-235-5776, or via email watsonp@umkcfoundation.org.

About UMKC

The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), one of four University of Missouri campuses, is a public university serving more than 15,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional students. UMKC engages with the community and economy based on a four-part mission: life and health sciences; visual and performing arts; urban issues and education; and a vibrant learning and campus life experience. For more information about UMKC, visit www.umkc.edu. You can also find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.


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