Deputy Director

A creative leader with a strong background in fashion design and management, Gipsita Nayak is dedicated to providing a forward-thinking curriculum that bridges the gap between tradition and modernity in the fashion industry.

Deputy Director, Center for American Studies

Ms. Aparupa Patnaik is a Sociologist, Indian classical Odissi dancer, emcee, and advocate for climate action and social change. She is a recipient of prestigious scholarships from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India including the Junior and Senior National Scholarships. Her dance achievements also include her solo projection at the Konark Temple Light and Sound Show and several honors such as “Odissi Ratna” and “Nrithya Vilasini.”

In academics, Aparupa is a gold medalist in Sociology from Utkal University and a Ph.D. scholar. Aparupa’s climate advocacy is marked by her selection for the Mercedes-Benz Fellowship, highlighting her efforts toward planet-positive projects. She has also published work on the National Education Policy and Sustainable Development Goals.

She has also completed her Junior Diploma in painting from Bangiya Sangeet Parishad and has got 1st division with distinction. She has also hosted shows as an anchor for Doordarshan National and Doordarshan Odia (Television). Awarded the “BHASKAR” (7th year – a degree equivalent to Masters) by Pracheen Kala Kendra, Chandigarh University securing 1st division with distinction in Odissi dance.
Aparupa is a life member of the Indian and International Sociological Associations and an empanelled expert with the UNESCO Inclusive Policy Lab. She serves on expert panels for indigenous art and culture under India’s Ministry of Culture and is an official member of several UN Environment Programme groups, focusing on chemicals, pollution, and sustainability. Additionally, she is part of the IUCN Leaders Forum and initiatives like UNESCO’s Greening Education.

Assistant Professor, KIIT School of Architecture & Planning

Parthiba Chakraborty is a dedicated academician with over a decade of experience in architectural education, specializing in design and climatology. Her expertise encompasses sustainable design practices, architectural innovation, and urban planning strategies, with a strong focus on addressing the challenges of contemporary built environments. She is also deeply passionate about preserving and celebrating cultural heritage, integrating it into modern architectural narratives.

Her research is centered on environmental vulnerability analysis in peri-urban areas, addressing critical concerns such as water, waste, and air quality assessments. She is driven by a vision of creating sustainable urban systems and fostering resilience in vulnerable communities, while preserving their cultural identity.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Parthiba is actively engaged in nurturing students’ academic and cultural growth, fostering a collaborative and dynamic learning environment. Her efforts extend to facilitating national and international collaborations, enriching the academic exposure of students and peers alike. Additionally, she has been instrumental in organizing workshops, events, and branding initiatives that have significantly bolstered the profile of the School of Architecture & Planning.

Parthiba is a committed member of the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), Odisha Chapter, and serves as the Convenor of the Women Planners Forum under the Institute of Town Planners, India (ITPI), Odisha Regional Chapter. Her leadership, vision, and collaborative endeavors continue to inspire innovative thought, inclusive practices, and cultural sensitivity in architecture and urban planning.