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Associate Dean Michael Mossman awarded prestigious Neville Quarry Architectural Education Prize

4 May 2023
Sydney academic recognised for educational excellence
Dr Michael Mossman, Associate Dean Indigenous Strategy and Services at the University of Sydney School of Architecture, Desgn and Planning, has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to architectural education in Australia.

Awarded by the Australian Institute of Architects, the Neville Quarry Architectural Education Prize recognises outstanding contributions to architectural education in Australia. It is awarded to individuals or groups who demonstrate exceptional achievement in teaching, scholarship, research, leadership, and community engagement.

A Kuku Yalanji man, registered architect and academic, Dr Michael Mossman has made significant contributions to architectural education through his innovative approach to teaching, his extensive research, and his leadership as Associate Dean Indigenous Strategy and Services. 

Dr Mossman joined the School in 2016 after 15 years at the NSW Government Architect's Office. As a lecturer and researcher, Dr Mossman has been a champion of embedding First Nations knowledges into teaching. His commitment to the Indigenisation of the architecture curriculum has given students the opportunity to engage with Country, First Nations culture and the unique knowledge systems of Traditional Custodians.

His influence extends to the wider industry through his work with the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia. His contribution to the National Standard of Competency has helped to embed First Nations' understandings of Country into professional accreditation requirements.

“As educators, we have a tremendous opportunity to enrich the architectural profession through understandings of Country and First Nations cultural practices and knowledge systems,” says Mossman.

“I hope this award inspires others to continue this critical work of facilitating meaningful interactions between Country and architecture and the built environment.”

The Neville Quarry Architectural Education Prize is a significant honour, recognising Dr Mossman's dedication to the promotion and improvement of the built environment through his work in architectural education.

“By enriching the next generation with greater understandings of Country and First Nations culture, Dr Mossman is transforming architectural practice in Australia,” says Professor Robyn Dowling, Head of School and Dean at Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning.

“His leadership has inspired countless students and colleagues, and we are proud to see him receive this well-deserved recognition".

The University of Sydney congratulates Dr Michael Mossman on this well-deserved award.

Dr Michael Mossman
Associate Dean Indigenous Strategy and Services

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