John Leeper AR’85

John Leeper AR’85 graduated in 1980 from Wesleyan University with a BA in mathematics and a minor in studio art. After graduation, he attended the Institute of Architecture and Urban Studies, where he interned under Peter Eisenman, its director. He attended Cooper from 1980-85, graduating with a B.Arch. I gave the speech at graduation and won the architecture leadership award. He has been an active member of the CUAA for many years, first as a council member, then as Secretary / Treasurer for six years, and most recently as CUAA President (2013-2015).

John has worked in construction since 1968, in positions from laborer to skilled tradesman, foreman, superintendent and Construction Executive. He has  worked on projects from single family houses to large scale complex urban projects, such as Time Warner Center, the National September 11 Memorial, the Thurgood Marshall US Courthouse, and the 92nd Street subway station.

He co-taught the Construction Management course, with John Huddy AR’85 at Cooper Union.

John Leeper received The Alumnus of the Year award in 2012 and a President’s Citation award in 2016.  He is a member of The Cooper Union Hall of Fame.

John Leeper’s speech during 2014 Founder’s Day Wreath Laying: link