Austin looks forward to contributing to the Ambassadorship and Student Alumni Exchange Committees, drawing on his experience organizing cross-university events and fostering engagement among students, alumni, and faculty. Austin is committed to strengthening global connections, supporting student-led initiatives, and promoting inclusive, cross-cultural dialogue within the GSD community. Austin also hopes to draw upon his experience in urban–rural integration, cultural placemaking, and international collaboration to support the Council’s mission and values.

As a postgraduate researcher at the Chinese University of Hong Kong’s Centre for Sustainable Placemaking and Urban-Rural Regeneration (SPUR), Austin contributes to interdisciplinary research on sustainable development and cultural conservation in Hong Kong’s traditional settlements. His work explores urban–rural integration, typological analysis, and participatory planning to inform policy and promote inclusive, community-based approaches. Engaging with regional case studies and cross-sector collaboration, Austin supports initiatives that bridge design, heritage, and social impact. Through this lens, he aims to uphold values of equity, diversity, and environmental stewardship—sharing insights relevant to the GSD community and fostering dialogue on sustainable, culturally rooted development in rapidly transforming urban contexts.

While at the GSD, Austin was active in the following student organizations: Rural GSD, Harvard GSD Urban AI Club, Harvard GSD XR Club, Landscape Technology Forum, HarvardxDesign, Design Research Forum, UD:ID, Hong Kong GSD, and ChinaGSD.

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Location: Hong Kong