An evening full of great wine, delightful French cuisine, and meaningful connections took place on April 5, 2025, at the Ann Arbor Golf & Outing Club (where Damian and his wife Katherine were longtime members).
“A French Connection: Farrell+Wine+Dine” was hosted by Greg Aerts, AIA and was the second annual event planned to help support MAF’s Damian Farrell Architecture Awareness Grants and to honor late long-time MAF board member Damian Farrell. Damian chaired the grant program from 2012 until his passing in 2023.
There was a total of $17,000 raised with 75 attendees, with the live auction hosted by Bob Daverman, AIA. All proceeds will go to fund the Damian Farrell Architecture Awareness Grants. Katherine Farrell expressed her appreciation to her friends, Damian’s past clients, and Damian himself.
MAF’s Damian Farrell Architecture Awareness Grants provide financial assistance to organizations and individuals that organize, sponsor and promote events, lectures, publications, and experiences that increase awareness of architecture. As program chair, Damian was responsible for thousands of grant dollars being awarded to support these groups. Through his leadership, he expanded the program’s reach to benefit even more architecture-based programs that served Michigan residents of all ages. After his passing, the grant was renamed to honor Damian and his commitment to the program.
The third annual event to support the Damian Farrell Architecture Awareness Grants will be held at the Ann Arbor Golf and Outing Club on March 28, 2026 and will feature Italian food and wine.
