University of Utah Provost Mitzi M. Montoya announced that Keith Diaz Moore has been named associate provost for institutional planning and design. Diaz Moore, who served as dean of the College of Architecture + Planning from 2014-2023, will begin his position immediately.

As dean, Diaz Moore facilitated the creation of two new research and outreach centers and oversaw the purpose-driven growth of the college that addressed issues like inclusion and community engagement. In his new role, he will utilize human-centered design practices to develop place-based strategies co-designed with collaborating stakeholders to further the university’s goal to promote social, economic and environmental thriving.

Diaz Moore will participate in shaping the university’s strategic plan and serve as champion for its place-making implications. This long-range planning will include the development of guiding strategies for growth, including planning, design and construction, and determining the who, what, where, when, how and why of the project. Diaz Moore will also use campus as a living lab to address emerging university projects through the College of Architecture + Planning to facilitate community feedback within an educational context.

“The U is poised to grow even more as we reach toward becoming a top 10 public university,” Montoya said. “Dr. Diaz Moore brings with him a wealth of experience and insight, both as a scholar and administrator, that will help us move into our next steps with thoughtfulness and creativity.”

Diaz Moore previously served as interim senior vice president for academic affairs and interim chief sustainability officer while serving as dean of the College of Architecture + Planning. He is an interdisciplinary, award-winning architectural educator and researcher with expertise in community and campus design, particularly for an aging society, as recognized by his fellowship status in the Gerontological Society of America. He has held numerous leadership roles in inter/national professional organizations as well as having previously served as president of AIA Utah.

“I am thrilled at the opportunity to work within the alignment of the U’s academic vision and mission, and campus design and the built environment,” Diaz Moore said. “The U is a community anchor, and by working together, we can optimize our purpose, people, program and physical setting.”