Running for: Alumni Council, Nominating Committee

Akash Godbole AR’17

Campaign Statement

I am deeply committed to supporting Cooper Union’s mission, particularly the pursuit of free education, which remains central to the school’s pedagogy. As a member of the CUAA, I would be honored to help alumni connect, organize, and contribute to that pursuit with a stronger, more inclusive community.

With experience working alongside a variety of artists, engineers, and architects, I am passionate about fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and mentorship—values that I believe are crucial to the CUAA. Throughout my career, I have always sought to foster team growth and provide support where needed, and I look forward to bringing that same approach to our alumni network.

As a current member of the John Q. Hejduk Award Committee, I have seen firsthand how the alumni community can support the school’s legacy and future. Cooper Union has shaped who I am today, and I am very dedicated to giving back to the community that has given me so much. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute further to the CUAA and help ensure that Cooper Union continues to inspire future generations.

Biography

Prior to joining Leroy Street Studio, he worked at Handel Architects, contributing to a variety of large-scale urban developments such as 25-01 Queensboro Plaza North, The Greyson in Jersey City, and the Passive House Harmony Commons Dormitory at the University of Toronto Scarborough. Earlier in his career, he was part of Studio Mumbai, where he co-led the design for the Nila Foundation for Textile Arts and contributed to projects including the Log Hotel in Onomichi, Japan, and a winning competition entry for Château de Beaucastel in France. 

Akash holds a Bachelor of Architecture from The Cooper Union (2017) and currently serves as a member of the John Q. Hejduk Award Committee. He looks forward to further engaging with the CUAA community.