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Jennifer Kerr, University Teacher in the School of Architecture and Landscape (previously School of Architecture), Faculty of Social Sciences.

Jennifer came into architecture having worked in various sectors including manufacturing, data analysis and finance. She went on to combine her passion for design with teaching to become a University teacher. 

Within the School of Architecture, Jennifer has been a champion of inclusivity and diversity and played an integral role in supporting student-led initiatives, informing the School’s Athena Swan application and representing the School on the University Race Equality Charter panel. 

Jennifer regularly runs widening participation activities as part of the University’s outreach programme, all with the goal of raising awareness amongst young people of all ages and backgrounds of avenues and possibilities that they may not otherwise be aware of. 

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Jennifer reflects on the importance of diversity in architecture, teaching and education:

“Diversity in architecture is so important. We’re all participants in society and have a role to play in making it a place for all. We should design for all, as our world is diverse. From an educational point of view, this translates to the idea that anyone can be an architect. This idea then cascades down and means our students are more diverse and the materials they’re learning should reflect that.

“Encouraging diversity, and intersectionality, starts right at the beginning of the education journey. Reaching out to different people from different socioeconomic backgrounds is so important and a core part of the outreach activities we are involved with. We've got a responsibility to provide opportunities and avenues to all young people. The school curriculum can be jam-packed and there isn't always an emphasis on creativity and that's creativity of all varieties. We’ll meet children who haven't had the opportunity to consider design. These events are an opportunity for them to explore avenues that bring them passion. 

“This work translates to our undergraduates and postgraduates, you’ll be working with people and see that light switch on behind their eyes when they realise they can do it and they have found their calling. 

“In all that I do, I’ll never pretend it's not hard, there are difficult times, and that’s why I really value allies, I wouldn’t be part of this initiative without allies. What it comes down to is giving everyone that opportunity to flourish.”

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Thank you to all the women for taking the time to share their stories and reflections and for providing the information featured on these web pages.