Benjamin Spencer is an Affiliate Associate Professor in the University of Washington, Departments of Landscape Architecture and Global Health, the director of the social enterprise Design Action Nepal, and the co-founder of the non-profit Traction Design. Ben’s work is collaborative and interdisciplinary. It integrates participatory design, research and teaching and explores the relationship between technology, ecology, and human wellbeing in developing communities. Ben teaches design and digital fabrication and directs community-based projects and study abroad programs. His current work focuses on the participatory design and implementation of multi-functional community centers/landscapes, and the development of sustainable, income generating products, in collaboration with marginalized Nepali communities.
For more information on Ben’s work visit Design Action Nepal’s website at www.designactionnepal.com [designactionnepal.com]