Honoring the Legacy of Maria Luisa Rossi
It is with deep heartfelt sorrow that Domus Academy marks the passing of Maria Luisa Rossi — one of our earliest students, and throughout her life a tireless designer, educator and mentor.
Beginnings at Domus Academy
Maria Luisa joined Domus Academy in its first class under the cultural guidance of Andrea Branzi. From that starting point, she embraced the school’s “learning-by-designing” philosophy, which places design at the heart of inquiry, experimentation and meaningful change.
It is with deep heartfelt sorrow that Domus Academy marks the passing of Maria Luisa Rossi — one of our earliest students, and throughout her life a tireless designer, educator and mentor.
Beginnings at Domus Academy
Maria Luisa joined Domus Academy in its first class under the cultural guidance of Andrea Branzi. From that starting point, she embraced the school’s “learning-by-designing” philosophy, which places design at the heart of inquiry, experimentation and meaningful change.
Educator & Mentor A Career with Global Reach
After her time in Milan, Maria Luisa’s professional path took her across borders and disciplines, pursuing a globally mobile life — from Florence to Paris, Tokyo, Los Angeles and Detroit.
A central figure in the design education community, Maria Luisa was a pillar of the Cumulus Association and served for sixteen years at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, where she founded and led the graduate System Design Thinking program.
A Memorable Homecoming
It was a joy and privilege to welcome Maria Luisa to our recent Alumni Reunion. Seeing her share memories of the early days of Domus Academy, recalling the spirit of the inaugural class. Her presence brought to life our history and our future in one single moment.
Our thoughts are with her family and the many colleagues and friends who had the honour of working alongside her at Cumulus Association, CCS Detroit, and around the world.
