Liza Morris has been named associate director of architectural planning within the Facilities Department’s Office of University Planning, effective April 25.

Morris will be responsible for working with external entities to support the architectural design of campus buildings, including both the preservation of historical buildings and the creation of new spaces like the Intelligent Infrastructure for Human-Centered Communities Destination Area, which was approved earlier this month by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

Supported by the Facilities Department, Morris will work with Assistant Vice President for Planning Jason Soileau to provide professional guidance and leadership to the long-range planning of Virginia Tech’s buildings, grounds, and overall environment in support of the university’s mission and strategic vision.

“Liza’s experience, leadership skills, and fundamental understanding of how the physical campus environment can perpetuate an environment of community, collaboration, and experiential learning will prove to be a great asset for advancing Virginia Tech’s strategic initiatives,” said Soileau.

Since 2013, Morris has served as an architect and project manager at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho, where she has overseen numerous renovations, building improvements, and new construction projects.

While at the University of Idaho, Morris was recognized several times for her professional contributions as well as for her passion for the preservation of historical architecture. In 2016, she received the University of Idaho Outstanding Employee Award. In the same year, Morris was part of a team that received Preservation Idaho’s Orchid Award in recognition of their excellence in the pursuit of historic preservation during her work on the Idaho Law and Justice Learning Center.

Prior to her current role at the University of Idaho, Morris worked as the principal architect and project manager for LLCM Architecture and Planning in Pullman, Washington. She also previously served as a project manager at Washington State University, along with over a decade of experience in multiple private architecture firms throughout Idaho and California.

Morris received her bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of Idaho. She is a graduate of leadership programs at both the University of Idaho and Northwest Nazarene University. 

Written by Abbey O'Farrell.

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