2026 Spring Lecture Series: Dana McKinney White

Dana McKinney White will share the evolution of her community-informed design methodology—a practice grounded in data-driven research, deep community engagement, and empathy. Her work spans scales from intimate public art installations to regional master plans, exploring how designers can meaningfully integrate community voices throughout the process. She will also discuss her ongoing book project, which examines how the design of carceral infrastructure—prisons and jails—shapes the lived experiences of those who inhabit these spaces and the communities around them and how designers in the future can respond with greater accountability and care.

Join us on Wednesday, April 15 at 6PM EDT  in Cascieri Hall or virtually!

Dana McKinney White is a licensed architect and urban planner and is an outspoken advocate for social justice and equity through design. She contextualizes people and their broader communities throughout her work. Her academic and professional work integrates wellness, progressive public policy, and inclusive economics into innovative design solutions. Dana is an Assistant Professor of Urban Design at the Harvard Graduate School of Design (GSD). She is also the Co-founder of enFOLD Collective, an interdisciplinary architecture, planning, and design practice, which positions community voices at the center of its projects and is the Founder of Studio KINN, a consulting practice advising on design and planning projects through a heightened commitment to vulnerable communities.

Dana graduated from Princeton University with a A.B. in Architecture and completed her Master in Architecture and Master Urban Planning, both with Distinction at the GSD. Dana is a co-founder of the Black in Design Conference.