KENNESAW, Ga. | Jul 9, 2026

When Professor of Architecture Saif Haq learned he had been selected to receive the 2025–2026 ARCC Mary Kihl Distinguished Service Award, the recognition carried special meaning.

Not only was it his first year at Kennesaw State University, but the Architectural Research Centers Consortium (ARCC) conference where he received the honor was hosted by Kennesaw State at an Atlanta hotel, making the moment "a double pleasure," Haq said.

The Mary Kihl Distinguished Service Award recognizes individuals who have made significant, lasting contributions to architectural research through the consortium. Haq has been involved with ARCC for more than a decade and during that time, he has served as a board member and treasurer, helping improve the organization's operations while advancing its mission to promote architectural research. The award is presented only when the board determines an individual has demonstrated exceptional leadership and sustained service worthy of the honor.

"My involvement with ARCC grew out of a deep interest in expanding architectural research and fostering connections between research and design," Haq said. "Being recognized for work that reflects something I’ve cared about throughout my career is especially meaningful."

Haq's passion for connecting research with design has shaped nearly every stage of his career. After earning a Bachelor of Architecture from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, he then completed a master's degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, focused on the cultural meaning of architecture, later earning a Ph.D. from the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he studied how individuals perceive and understand architectural spaces. Those experiences laid the foundation for his research and his commitment to helping students and researchers connect creative design with analytical thinking.

Since joining Kennesaw State in 2025, Haq has focused on strengthening the Department of Architecture within the College of Architecture and Construction Management (CACM) while expanding opportunities for students. He recently established an Architecture Advisory Board composed of industry leaders to help ensure the curriculum evolves alongside the changing needs of the profession. He also hopes to eventually relaunch a graduate architecture program at KSU.

"Dr. Haq's dedication to advancing the discipline of architecture reflects the mission of the College of Architecture and Construction Management," said CACM Dean Rashed Ali. "His leadership within ARCC has earned the respect of colleagues around the world, and this recognition highlights the impact he is making on the profession, our college, and our students."

–  Story by Raynard Churchwell
    Photo provided

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 51,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university's vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.