Hao Ko (B.A. Architecture, ’94) credits his time at Berkeley with solidifying his belief in the power of design to enact positive change. Growing up in Davis, California, he was drawn to the public university system’s commitment to accessibility and a wide range of perspectives. “From my first day at Berkeley,” Hao recalls, “the diversity of my classmates, the commitment of the faculty, the legacy of social activism — it all made a profound impact on me.”
Hao’s career embodies a deep appreciation for community and social impact. As Gensler’s global director of design based in its San Francisco office, he consistently seeks projects that benefit the broader community. From pro bono work for the city to designing a new museum for San Francisco’s Chinatown, Hao leverages his architectural expertise to elevate underrepresented voices and create spaces that foster a sense of pride and belonging. Whether working with prestigious corporate clients like Mercedes-Benz USA and Nvidia, where he prioritizes the needs of those using the buildings, or engaging in community-focused endeavors, Hao’s work reflects his commitment to using design as a force for positive change.
His dedication to public education was deeply inspired by his father, Winston Ko. A renowned physicist, Winston served as dean of mathematical and physical sciences at UC Davis, dedicating his professional life to the institution. Inspired by his father’s legacy, Hao, along with his wife, Fay Wang, have chosen to make a lasting impact through a gift in their estate plan, which supports Berkeley’s College of Environmental Design (CED).
Their generous gift to Berkeley will establish a Visiting Professor of Practice in Design at CED. Recognizing the disparity between the communities architects serve and the demographics of the profession itself, Hao is committed to fostering a more inclusive and representative field.
