05/15/2026
The Boston Architectural College is honored to announce that internationally acclaimed landscape architect and urbanist Mario Schjetnan will deliver the 2026 Commencement keynote address and receive the Doctor of Design Honoris Causa on May 22.
Recipient of the 2025 Cornelia Hahn Oberlander International Landscape Architecture Prize, Mario Schjetnan is widely recognized as one of the most influential voices in landscape architecture and urbanism today. Through his visionary work integrating ecology, infrastructure, culture, and public life, he has transformed cities and communities across Mexico and beyond.
As the Founder of Grupo de Diseño Urbano (GDU - Mario Schjetnan) in Mexico City, his celebrated projects—including Xochimilco Ecological Park, Bicentennial Park, and the Chapultepec Park restoration—have become global models for resilient, landscape-driven urban transformation.
This year’s commencement carries special significance as the BAC celebrates its designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, reinforcing our commitment to access, equity, inclusion, and global perspectives in design education.
The BAC will also confer honorary degrees upon:
✨ Taniya Nayak, MSIA'03 — BAC Alumna, Principal, Taniya Nayak Design, and Television Host, will receive the Doctor of Design Honoris Causa for Alumni Excellence
✨ Lee Pelton — President and CEO of The Boston Foundation and a nationally respected leader in higher education and civic engagement, will receive the Doctor of Design Leadership Honoris Causa for Public Service and Leadership
✨ Judith Nitsch — former Board Chair, current member of the Board of Trustees, and champion of the BAC community, will receive the Doctor of Design Leadership Honoris Causa for Service to the College.
“As we gather to celebrate this graduating class, we are equally honored to recognize leaders whose work reflects the values at the heart of the BAC—design excellence, civic leadership, creativity, and service,” said BAC President Mahesh Daas.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026 and to this extraordinary group of honorees whose work continues to shape a more resilient, equitable, and inspiring future through design.
FULL STORY HERE: http://the-bac.edu/news-index/internationally-acclaimed-landscape-architect-mario-schjetnan-to-deliver-2026-commencement-keynote-speech-and-receive-honorary-doctorate-from-the-boston-architectural-college