Nodes of Design#111: Design as a Life Skill by Ruki Neuhold-Ravikumar

With over two decades of experience in arts, design, culture, education, and nonprofit sectors, Ruki Neuhold-Ravikumar brings a unique perspective and passion for reimagining the future of creative learning and practice.

A proven administrator, award-winning designer and educator, and globally respected thought leader, Ruki has served as the President & CEO of the Kansas City Art Institute, Acting Director of Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum in New York, and the Acting Under Secretary of Education at the Smithsonian Institution (at-large) in Washington, D.C.

Originally from Chennai, India, she received her MFA in graphic design from Iowa State University and BFA in the history of fine art and drawing and painting from Stella Maris College in India. She also has executive education certificates in business from Yale University and Harvard University and a certificate in museum studies from Northwestern University.

Ruki has served in multiple leadership roles for the American Institute of Graphic Arts, and in 2015, she was named an AIGA Fellow by the Oklahoma Chapter for her advocacy and leadership as a design educator. She is featured in films, podcasts, and interviews. She has won numerous awards and recognitions, including the 2021 Design Achievement Award from the Iowa State College of Design, and was the commencement speaker at Iowa State University's Fall 2023 Ceremony.

In this episode, we'll delve into how Ruki's background in design has shaped her approach to leadership, problem-solving, and societal development.

We'll also discuss the importance of teaching design as a life skill, the role of design in addressing complex social issues, and how design thinking can prepare future generations for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Additionally, Ruki will share her insights on the evolution of design thinking with AI and how design can contribute to sustainability and environmental consciousness.

We concluded the show with Ruki's recommendations for her three favorite books and the people who inspire her the most in the design space.

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This podcast aims to make design education accessible to all. Nodes of Design is a non-profit and self-sponsored initiative by Tejj.

Keywords: Design as a life skill, Design Thinking, Design for Sustainability, Design for AI, Creativity, Industry Insights, Design Challenges