Allen Samuels: TEDxUofM

On March 20, Professor and Dean Emeritus Allen Samuels delivered a TEDxUM talk titled ​“Why is Designing the Oldest Profession?”

In this talk, Samuels provides insight into the origins and characteristics of designers.

Allen Samuels began his career as an Industrial Designer in 1966, and has designed products for corporations including Corning, Bausch and Lomb, and Libbey Glass. He joined the University of Michigan in 1975 and was appointed Dean of the School of Art and Design in 1993. Samuels believes that everyone has the ability to be a good designer, which has led him to dedicate his life and career to encourage student to design a better tomorrow. 

TEDxUofM is a university-wide initiative to galvanize the community for an event like no other; filled with inspiration, discovery, and excitement. Borrowing the template from the world-renowned TED conference, TEDxUofM aims to bring a TED-like experience to the University of Michigan. Our vision is to showcase the most fascinating thinkers and doers, the ​“leaders and best” in Michigan terms, for a stimulating day of presentations, discussions, entertainment, and art that will spark new ideas and opportunities across all disciplines.