For graduate student Cory Hoffmann, the most important thing about his future in architecture is that he makes a lasting impact. He aspires to create community hubs and architecture that reacts to climate change. Cory explained, “The future is uncertain, and I believe that is a beautiful state to be in.”
While Cory was an undergraduate student, he first believed that architecture was solely a technical endeavor. Over time, his perspective has shifted and he now considers how a building can have a social, cultural, and sustainable impact. “Architecture has grown for me from four walls and a door to a functional art piece capable of making true impact.”
Cory who is currently in the final month of his Master of Architecture program at the University of Michigan’s Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, is the 2025 recipient of MAF’s Daniel W. Toshach & AIA Saginaw Valley Chapter Scholarship. Cory is now a two-time recipient of the scholarship after also receiving it in 2024 as well.
For Cory, being awarded the same scholarship for a second time was extremely meaningful. “Past the financial support, it showed that there are a group of individuals who believe in my growth and potential” he explained. “Receiving the scholarship has reminded me of the great opportunities I have received and keeps me focused on my future goals.”
The positive impact of receiving the first scholarship made it so Cory intentionally reapplied in 2025. After receiving so much support and encouragement from those involved with MAF, he realized that he wanted to continue being a part of the community. “This scholarship allowed me to put more effort into my academic career without financial stress,” he expressed. “I have also been able to build strong connections that push me to the highest standard both in and out of the classroom.”
Through his Master of Architecture program, Cory was able to study abroad in France and research the effects of climate change on the Camargue nature reserves and surrounding farmlands. “This program has given me new opportunities to travel the globe to research architecture and cultures, which has instilled a new sense of curiosity in me about the world.”
Cory’s journey has been influenced and support by his mentor, architect and professor Kate O’Connor. “Kate pushed me to get my master’s degree at the University of Michigan. She is thoughtful in her teachings and expands upon that in her designs as an architect. Kate told me to never settle for something easy and to push for the challenge, because that is where life will begin.”
As part of their MAF scholarship application, architecture students are required to submit personal and leadership statements. Throughout his studies, Cory has experienced the world of architecture in various ways. He started a small rug tufting business called Plush Piles and has been able to design personalized rugs. Currently, he is an editor for the student-led journal called Dimensions Journal, which contains a collection of student and fellows projects, interviews, and additional information happening within the architecture school at Taubman College. As well, he is working at Daniels and Zermack Architecture as an architectural associate, when he is designing libraries and schools across the state of Michigan.
Students are also required to submit a design portfolio. Cory notes that his favorite project he submitted was Triad: Movie Complex, which is a studio project that follows a movie theatre placed on Ann Arbors North Campus within an existing strip mall. The theatre includes an orchestra film theater to listen to live music along with a film and a planetarium for educational learning. “This project allowed me to explore design through repetition and iterations and merging those designs into architecture that James Cameron would be proud to premiere his movies in.”
Michigan Architectural Foundation’s mission is to advance awareness of how architecture enriches life. How does Cory think architecture enriches life? “The best architecture doesn’t beg for attention but rather quietly coexists with a person’s everyday life. Thoughtful design should be able to create connections with people between each other and nature while expressing culture and Identity. The buildings themselves reflect the values, history, and aspirations of the people that create and use them.”