Kristen Mauch Presented with Meeting Students’ Needs Award
Kristen K. Mauch, NCARB, Associate Dean of Student Services and Associate Professor of Practice of Architecture, has been presented with the LSU Online Innovation Series 2026 Meeting Students’ Needs award, recognized for her dedication to LSU students.
“These courses are a great way to bring art & design topics to the larger LSU community,” said Arne Flaten, Dean of the LSU College of Art & Design.
Since joining the LSU School of Architecture faculty in 2010, Mauch has taught in both the Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Architecture programs. Prior to her appointment as Associate Dean, she served as the School of Architecture’s Undergraduate Coordinator and spearheaded the LSU Architecture Camp, a residential summer camp for high school students. Mauch is also a licensed architect in the state of Louisiana and serves as the Architect Licensing Advisor for LSU. Mauch’s research focuses on design pedagogy and beginning design education.
“Professor Mauch genuinely cares about her students and it shows in how patient, understanding, and supportive she is,” said Molly Spring, online student. “She explains things clearly, makes herself available when help is needed and always wants students to succeed, not just pass. The online format was super organized and easy to follow. The lessons were clear, deadlines were reasonable and communication was great, which made learning much less stressful.”
“Overall, this was one of the most positive class experiences I’ve had. Professor Mauch created a supportive environment and made the course enjoyable and meaningful. Congrats to you Professor Mauch! Well-deserved.”
“Professor Mauch was my professor for ARCH 2401, and what sets her apart is not only how she teaches, but how deeply she cares,” said student Sequoia Sledge. “From the very beginning, she made it clear that students mattered not just as learners, but as people. She was consistently present, approachable, and attentive, ensuring that no one felt overlooked or left behind. Her encouragement and thoughtful feedback gave students confidence, especially during moments of uncertainty or challenge.”
“The online class experience was especially meaningful because Professor Mauch made it feel human. She created structure without rigidity, clarity without pressure, and support without judgment. Even in a virtual space, she fostered connection, motivation, and trust something that is rare and powerful.”
“Professor Mauch is extremely generous and truly cares about her students’ success,” said student Dan Braden. “Even through an online class, she was always quick to respond to questions or help with clarifications. It is easy to see that she has true passion for the class she teaches and values us as students learning the desired lesson. I am very appreciative for the experience. Congratulations!”
Mauch was also awarded a 2024 LSU Alumni Association Faculty Excellence Award and 2019 CxC Outstanding Faculty Award. She teaches courses including: ARCH 2401: Appreciation of Architecture (on-campus) and ARCH 2002/2102: Architectural Design IV.
She has received high praise from students in her in-person class as well. “Professor Mauch not only ensures her students succeed in architecture but also reaches out of her way to guarantee all of her students a successful and bright future in general. I think every student at LSU would benefit greatly if they had a professor like Professor Mauch,” said Sam Duffy, architecture student.
“Professor Mauch teaches with compassion, intention, and heart,” said Sledge. “Her impact extends far beyond course content; she leaves students feeling capable, valued, and inspired. This award reflects what her students already know she makes a lasting difference.”