By Bruce Sekanick, FAIA
The future of architecture in Ohio is bright, and much of that optimism comes from the incredible, quiet, and behind the scenes work being done by the AIA Ohio Foundation. Through scholarships, student programs, grants, outreach, and partnerships, the Foundation continues to celebrate, encourage, and support the next generation of architects and the communities they will one day shape.
At its core, the Foundation is about opportunity. It is about opening doors for students, supporting meaningful programs, and helping people better understand the value architects bring to society every day. Thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters across the state, the Foundation continues to grow its reach and its impact in exciting ways.
One of the Foundation’s proudest accomplishments is its ongoing scholarship program, which provides financial support to students attending each of Ohio’s five architectural programs. These scholarships help students continue their education and pursue their passion for architecture while reminding them that the profession is invested in their success. Every scholarship awarded is more than financial assistance—it is encouragement, recognition, and confidence in the future of architecture.
Excitement is also building for the upcoming AIA Ohio Foundation Student Design Awards. Soon, volunteers from across Ohio will come together to jury student studio projects showcasing the creativity, innovation, and talent emerging from architecture schools throughout the state. The program is always inspiring, offering a glimpse into the future of the profession while celebrating the hard work and imagination of Ohio’s architecture students.
The Foundation’s Component Grant Program is another example of how support from members and donors creates meaningful opportunities statewide. With submissions now open, local components and organizations are preparing proposals for programs that will strengthen communities, support education, and expand outreach efforts. Once the submission period closes (on July 15), a Foundation jury will again have the rewarding challenge of selecting from many deserving initiatives.
This year, the Foundation has also continued its outreach to American Institute of Architecture Students chapters across Ohio. Throughout the spring and into the fall, Foundation representatives have visited, and will visit, student AIA chapters and provide funding that helps support programs, events, and activities that enrich the architectural student experience. These visits strengthen the connection between students and the profession while building enthusiasm for the future.
Guided by an eleven-person board, with the guidance of our Executive Director, Kate Brunswick, Hon, AIA, the Foundation works closely with school administration, students, architects, educators, and community leaders to advance the profession both inside and outside the classroom. Earlier this year, the Foundation expanded its impact even further by partnering with AIA Cincinnati to assume management of the Bettman Prize, helping continue a respected tradition of support and recognition in the Cincinnati architectural community.
What makes the Foundation special is its focus on people and possibilities. It is not centered on advocacy or design awards or architectural documents—it is centered on supporting the future of the profession. From helping students succeed to funding community-based programs and building stronger public awareness of architecture, the Foundation continues to invest in the long-term strength of architecture in Ohio.
The vision for the future is exciting. The Foundation continues to look for new ways to expand its programs, strengthen outreach, and improve the public’s understanding of the important role architects play in shaping healthier, stronger, and more vibrant communities.
Every scholarship awarded, every grant funded, every student recognized, and every donation made helps move that vision forward. Together, supporters of the AIA Ohio Foundation are helping ensure that the future of architecture in Ohio remains strong, inspiring, and full of opportunity. The Foundation extends our sincere appreciation to you, the members of AIA Ohio, for your strong support of our mission and vision.