The GSD remembers Branko Kolarevic (MDes ’89, DDes ’93), who passed away on January 29, 2026. The former dean of the New Jersey Institute of Technology Hillier College of Architecture and Design, Branko dedicated his life to the advancement of architectural education.
Branko was born in the central Serbian city of Čačak and grew up in Kraljevo. He moved to Belgrade in 1982 to study architecture, where he met his wife Vera Parlac. In 1988, Branko came to the GSD on a Fullbright Scholarship, earning his doctorate in design by 1993.
Branko was an prolific author, beloved mentor, and global educator, devoted to the exploration and integration of digital design technology. Branko’s influential book, Architecture in the Digital Age: Design and Manufacturing (2003), was among the first to explore how digital technologies are transforming architectural practice.
Branko served as president of the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture, the Canadian Architectural Certification Board, and the Association for Computer Added Design in Architecture. As a leader, he championed international collaboration and embraced each opportunity to shape architectural education. Branko received the ACADIA Award for Innovative Research in 2007 and the ACADIA Society Award of Excellence in 2015.
Branko will be remembered for his determination, generosity, and global impact. He is survived by his wife Vera and his son Marko Kolarevic. In lieu of flowers, Branko’s family suggests that donations be made to a legacy scholarship fund in Branko’s name.
Learn more about Branko’s life and legacy.
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