Student Services Team
Our Mission
The College of Architecture and Planning student services team aims to foster student success by offering a welcoming environment, where students are provided tools and resources that will empower them to make decisions leading to the highest level of academic, career, and personal achievement.
To accomplish our mission, the student services staff in the College of Architecture and Planning will:
- Assist students in the development of meaningful education plans.
- Serve as a resource for students to provide timely, accurate information and professional advice about degree programs, university policies and procedures, campus resources, and student engagement opportunities.
- Support and advance the recruitment, admission, and enrollment of students to the College.
- Encourage self-reliant problem-solving.
- Empower students to take responsibility for achieving their academic, career, and personal goals.
- Assist students in their transition and integration into college/the College.
- Forster community at the College and University level.
- Collaborate with faculty to ensure accurate curricular information is communicated to both current and prospective students.
- Help students build professional networks and skills in their field through participation in Internship and Mentorship programs.
Leadership
Leo Darnell
Assistant Dean of Academic Services
Leo Darnell is a respected leader known for his valuable contributions to higher education and the private sector. He has a diverse background in student services, organizational management, program improvement, strategic planning, and staff development, consistently driving success and innovation in his various roles.
Leo's academic journey reflects his dedication to design and planning education. He earned dual master's degrees in architecture and urban design from the University of Colorado Denver, following a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin in 1991. Leo exemplifies his dedication to environmentally responsible practices through his influential LEED Accredited Professional Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) certification.
Currently, Leo serves as the Assistant Dean in the College of Architecture and Planning (CAP), where he plays a vital role in overseeing academic support infrastructure. His leadership involves managing student services staff and aligning strategic processes with CAP's mission. Leo's focus on a creating an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration, encourages exploration, empowers people, and embraces diversity has greatly improved student success, enhancing the college's reputation at local, state, and national levels.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Leo is actively involved in ACE Mentor Colorado, where he serves on the Executive Board since 2014. He works to build ACE Colorado into a thriving hub for high school STEAM students, promoting collaboration and learning. Leo's dedication to creating an innovative curriculum, forging strategic partnerships with AEC employers, and establishing a robust scholarship program has greatly enhanced mentorship and educational opportunities for ACE students.
