George Ristow selected as our next University Architect

We’re pleased to share that George Ristow will be joining Yale as the University Architect. Reporting to J. Mike Bellamy, vice president for Facilities, Campus Development, and Sustainability, George will help advance Yale’s architectural vision and shape the Office of the University Architect.

 

George brings more than 25 years of experience in architecture, campus planning, and project management, with roles spanning university administration and architectural practice. His portfolio includes academic and civic projects across the country. He most recently stewarded the Rice University campus in Houston as assistant vice president of campus planning and design and university architect during a period of significant growth.

 

At Rice, George partnered with senior leadership, trustees, and the Rice community to guide campus planning and design. He built a planning and design function within a broader facilities organization and supported the integration of real estate and on-campus facilities leadership. He and his team also developed campus architectural design standards.

 

Earlier in his career, George worked with Gensler and KieranTimberlake. He earned a B.S. in architecture from the University of Michigan and an M.Arch. from the Yale School of Architecture. He’s a registered architect, NCARB-certified, a LEED Accredited Professional, and a member of the American Institute of Architects and the Association of University Architects.

 

George succeeds inaugural University Architect James (Jamie) Kolker, FAIA. During his tenure, Jamie launched the Office of the University Architect, established the design excellence program, and relaunched the Design Advisory Committee, which serves as a resource of design professionals to help steward Yale’s built environment. Jamie has decided to transition into consulting and teaching, and he will stay on to support the transition and advise on select initiatives.

 

Please join us in welcoming George as he steps into this leadership role on August 4, 2026. We look forward to partnering with him as we move forward with capital development and the strategic initiatives aligned with our shared mission.