Discover Our Campus Departments

At Kennesaw State, our dedicated departments, including,  Campus Planning, Design and Construction, Environmental Health and Safety, Space Strategy, Interior Design, Environmental Graphic Design & Signage, and Engineering play a pivotal role in creating and maintaining environments that foster learning, innovation, and safety across our vibrant campus. From envisioning and constructing cutting-edge facilities to ensuring the well-being of our community, these departments work to shape the physical landscape of KSU.

Explore how these pillars of our institution contribute to the dynamic and thriving campus that is Kennesaw State University!

Campus Planning

The Campus Planning unit oversees the master and capital planning of the KSU Campus. We work collaboratively to create a campus that aligns with the vision articulated in the Campus Master Plan and that serves the long-term needs of various KSU departments. We strive to develop spaces that are environmentally sensitive, equitable and that foster productivity and innovation

    • Physical and Master Plan oversight and implementation in collaboration with USG, KSU Real Estate, university leaders, and stakeholders.
    • Pre-planning work with university stakeholders, which includes defining space needs, project scope, draft budgets, and schedules.
    • Review and approval of exterior space requests. 

Design and Construction

The Design and Construction unit within PDC & EHS is responsible for effectively managing the design process and overseeing new construction and renovations of existing space and infrastructure in support of teaching, learning, research and other activities at Kennesaw State University.

This team consists of a professional staff with backgrounds that range from project management, architecture, interior design, construction and engineering.

    • Construction project management serving as owner’s representative in the efficient execution of design and construction projects.
    • Liaison between Kennesaw State University and the Board of Regents Real Estate and Facilities Office and GSFIC for approvals and procurement activities.
    • Develops and manages construction project budgets and schedules.
    • Oversees consultant and contractor solicitation and services.
    • Manages and coordinates consultant and contractor solicitation and services. 

Environmental Health and Safety

Kennesaw State University (KSU) is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of its entire community across teaching, learning, residential, and work environments. Moreover, the university is strongly committed to reducing its environmental footprint. To accomplish this mission, the Environmental Health and Safety Department (EHS) at KSU serves as the institution's primary resource for expertise and support in matters related to environmental and occupational safety. The EHS team works tirelessly to ensure that KSU remains in full compliance with all relevant federal, state, and local environmental health and safety laws, regulations, and guidelines.

Learn More About KSU Environmental Health and Safety

Space Strategy

The Space Strategy team is responsible for overseeing the process for space allocation that is fair, transparent and tied to KSU's strategic principles. The Executive Space and Project Committee and Space and Project Working Group are an integral part of that review and approval process. 

  • Space requests can be submitted using the space/project request form. The request will be routed for approval to the manager or department chair with budget responsibility to confirm funding availability for any modifications. Once verified, the request will be reviewed through the Annual Planning process and by oversight committees as needed.  Space requests should include appropriate justification, including how the request supports the mission of the department and strategic goals of the University.  A detailed review of department space data or utilization information will be required prior to review by the Working Group or Executive Committee. 

    The following principles are used to guide decision-making:

    • Space is a limited and shared resource and should be efficiently utilized to serve the University as a whole. 
    • Student success and the impact on student outcomes should be a primary consideration for all space planning decisions. 
    • Effective space planning will support Kennesaw State University’s Strategic Plan and Campus Master Plan. Any decisions regarding use of space that do not support the strategic plan or campus master plan must be approved by the president. 
    • Effective space management is logical, transparent, and data informed.
    • Units requesting additional space will be expected to demonstrate they are using current space to its maximum efficiency. 
    • Instructional facilities and student support will be given highest priority at the center of each campus. To the extent feasible, non-academic administrative units shall be located on the perimeter of each campus. 
    • Reuse and adaptation of existing space is encouraged over new construction or major renovation. 
    • The University will prioritize living/learning environments to enhance the academic mission in places where students live and interact. 
      Synergies created by placing like groups and functions in proximity will be considered. 
    • The University’s impact on and ability to share resources with the community will be considered. 
      Priority for use of university space will be given to university units as opposed to outside entities. 
    • The University may reserve swing space for construction projects, program growth expansion, and unexpected or emergency needs. 

  • The Executive Space and Project Committee is charged with overseeing and advising the president on all matters related to space use and allocation and its alignment with strategic priorities.  The Committee also evaluates capital requests for affordability, funding feasibility, and long‑term financial impact, providing fiscal insight to inform institution‑wide capital prioritization. 

    The committee is strategic in nature and will advise Planning, Design & Construction on the following, escalating to the President if deemed necessary by the committee: 

    • Multi-pronged moves in support of capital projects 
    • Whole department relocations 
    • Changes in use of space (if escalated by the Working Group) 
    • Options to lease or rent space 
    • Prioritized project proposals from the Annual Planning process 
    • Small and large capital project proposals 

    Any decisions regarding use of space that do not support the strategic plan or campus master plan must be approved by the president. 

    Committee Members: 


    Lesley Netter-Snowden, Ed.D., Executive Vice President and Chief Business Officer  
    Ivan Pulinkala, Vice President for IT and CIO 
    Aaron Stremish, Vice President for IT and CIO 
    Karin Scarpinato, Vice President for Research 
    Ryan McLemore, Vice President of Finance and CFO 
    Eric Arneson, Vice President, Student Affairs 
    Sheb True, Associate Vice Provost for Global Engagement, Professional Education and Strategic Initiatives  
    Hazem Rashed-Ali, Dean of the College of Architecture and Construction Management and Professor of Architecture 
    Gowri Pillai, Assistant Vice President for Planning, Design and Construction and Environmental Health & Safety 
    Amanda Jones, Executive Director, Space Strategy, Interiors and Graphics 
    Julie McDaniel, University Architect 

  • The Space and Project Working Group meets monthly to evaluate space and capital requests for operational impacts, space functionality, and alignment with current and planned academic and institutional initiatives, providing an institution‑wide, programmatic perspective to inform decision‑making. 


    The group is responsible for reviewing changes of space purpose or office moves outside of the department area as well as recommendations to the Executive Committee on larger space requests or reallocations.  Additionally, the working group reviews proposed projects in accordance with the Annual Planning process. 

    Working Group Members: 

    Amanda Jones, Executive Director, Space Strategy, Interiors and Graphics
    Cara Ray,     Assistant Vice President, Student Affairs 
    Leigh Funk,     Assistant Vice Provost 
    Gowri Pillai,     Assistant Vice President for Planning, Design and Construction and Environmental Health & Safety 
    Cole Stratton,     Assistant Vice President, Academic Strategy & Finance  
    Paul Parker,     Executive Director, Registrar 
    Ruth Goldfine,     Senior Associate Dean for Operations, Planning and Innovation 
    Heather Abbott,     Director of Research Development and Professor of Chemistry  
    Vacant,     Assistant Vice President, Budget and Planning 
    Paula Motta,     IT Infrastructure Services Manager, UITS 
    Zach Kerns,     Assistant Vice President, Campus Operations 
    Julie McDaniel,     University Architect  
    Lindsay Cadaret,     Sr. University Space Planner 
    Whitney Kemp,     Senior Capital Planner 

 

Interior Design & Furniture

The Interior Design team within PDC creates functional, accessible, and engaging environments that enhance the overall campus experience. We design a diverse range of spaces across the university, from residential and hospitality environments to workspaces, conference rooms, classrooms and student lounges, providing creative, cost-effective, and technically sound solutions that balance aesthetics with functionality. 

Through research, analysis, and professional expertise, we develop solutions that respond to the physical, organizational, cultural, and social needs of each project. Our work balances client goals with applicable building codes, ADA requirements, university standards, safety regulations, and state procurement guidelines to deliver cohesive, compliant, and enduring campus environments. 

Our Services

    • FF&E budgeting 
    • Selection and specifications 
    • Procurement  
    • Coordinate Installation 
    • Finish selections and specifications 
    • Flooring, wall, ceiling, and paint selections 
    • Material research and evaluation 
    • Finish standards and guidelines 
    • University Design Standards and guidelines 
    • ADA and accessibility requirements 
    • Building code and safety compliance 
    • State procurement requirements
    • Product, material, and finish review 
    • Interior design consultation 
    • Space planning and furniture layouts 
    • Furniture and finish selections 
    • Conceptual design and design documentation 
    • Product research and specifications 
    • Design coordination and installation support 
    • Programming, space planning, and interior design review 
    • Furniture, finish, and material specifications 
    • Construction document and design review 
    • Architect, consultant, and KSU stakeholder coordination 
    • FF&E budgeting, design, and procurement
    • Installation, punch, and project closeout support 

Project & Space Request

PDC provides furniture planning, space assessments, and design solutions that meet functional needs and university standards. All furniture planning and space-related projects must be coordinated through PDC. Please submit a Project & Space Request to initiate a project. 

Furniture Procurement Standards & Approval Process

  • All furniture purchases at KSU—including chairs, desks, workstations, conference tables, lounge furnishings, and classroom furniture—must receive prior review and approval from PDC. 

    Furniture must be purchased through the applicable Mandatory Statewide Furniture Contract in accordance with Georgia state procurement requirements. Purchases from non-contracted retailers, including Amazon, Staples, Wayfair, Costco, IKEA, and similar retail sources, are not permitted. 

    PDC reviews furniture selections to ensure they meet university standards, commercial-grade performance requirements, accessibility, fire and life-safety requirements, warranty standards, and long-term institutional needs. 

    Departments should not place furniture orders directly. Please coordinate with PDC for furniture selections, approval, and procurement guidance before making a purchase. 

    Exception: Pre-approved items identified in the “Department Furniture Self-Service Option” section may be purchased through the self-service process described below. 

  • When furniture is damaged, worn, or no longer functional—including broken components, structural issues, or upholstery failure—PDC will assess the condition and determine the appropriate solution. 

    1. Submit a request to PDC with photos of the furniture and its location. 
    2. PDC will assess the condition and determine whether repair or replacement is appropriate. 
    3. If replacement is recommended, PDC will provide approved options and guide the department through the procurement process. 

  • Furniture purchased outside of the required approval and procurement process cannot receive retroactive approval from PDC.

    Unauthorized purchases may require the department to complete an Unauthorized Commitment Form through Procurement.

    To avoid delays, additional paperwork, or compliance issues, departments must consult PDC and receive approval before initiating any furniture purchase. 

 

Deparment Furniture Self-Serve Option

To streamline furniture purchasing, PDC has established a curated list of pre-approved furniture options that meet KSU standards for quality, durability, ergonomics, accessibility, safety, aesthetics, and warranty coverage. 

The pre-approved list includes:
  • Commercial-grade furniture designed for institutional use 
  • Ergonomic seating with adjustable features for extended daily use 
  • Options that align with KSU campus design standards 
  • Products that meet applicable ADA and safety requirements 
  • Products that are on the Mandatory Statewide Furniture Contract 
  • Budget-conscious options to support a range of departmental needs
Steps to Purchase: 
  1. Select an item from the pre-approved list. 
  2. Request a quote from the identified vendor. 
  3. Enter the requisition request in PeopleSoft ePro and add the designated PDC representative (Sara Powell) as an Ad Hoc Approver in the approval workflow. 
Furniture selections outside of the pre-approved list require prior review and approval from PDC before a quote or purchase is initiated. 

Environmental Graphic Design & Signage 

The Environmental Graphic Design (EGD) and Signage unit is responsible for planning, procuring, and overseeing the installation of campus signage and graphics to maintain a consistent KSU brand identity across all physical spaces. Please see each category below for the breakdown of our services.

Note: PDC has oversight of signage and wayfinding compliance. Unauthorized installations may be subject to removal and/or replacement.

  • For questions regarding signage approvals and project guidance, please email signage@kennesaw.edu

  • Environmental Graphics

    • Experiential Graphic
    • Design development
    • Facilitate donor plaques
    • Exterior Commemorative Markers
    • Large-scale print and dimensional wall coverings

    Wayfinding Strategies

    • Directional and ADA accessible path signs
    • Evacuation map signs
    • KSU-specific building, parking lots, or amenities

    Identification Signage

    • Interior rooms or areas
    • Exterior building names and number
    • Monument and pole signs
    • Campus banners

    Informational Signage

    • Manage campus-wide maps
    • Building directories
    • Facility rules
    • Operational hour decals

    Regulatory Signage

    • Back-of-house (electrical, mechanical, data, riser, roof access) room, restroom, stairwell, and elevator signs
    • Pedestrian and vehicular signage
    • Facilitate laboratory signage

  • Environmental graphic design and signage project requests can be submitted using the project request form. Under "Type of Request", click Interiors & Graphics Project Request (furniture, new flooring, signage).

    The project request form includes questions about the requestor, department/unit name, as well as questions regarding funding the request. It's often helpful to attach additional details such as images of the existing space or sign, PDF document, etc.

Engineering

The Engineering unit within PDC provides engineering support to internal design, construction and operation teams in an effort optimize the built environment with a focus on safety, reliability, maintainability, improved life cycle cost and sustainability. 

Our primary focus is on mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), building automation systems (BAS), fire protection, energy systems, utilities, and stormwater systems. 

    • Engineering design review and value engineering of construction documents
    • Phase reviews - Schematic design, Design development, Construction Set.
    • Commissioning – from vendor selection to closeout
    • Facility condition assessments
    • Feasibility studies
    • Capital renewal budgeting
    • Utility master plan
    • Standards development