As we pass the halfway point of 2026, Michigan Architectural Foundation is thriving!
MAF’s mission is dedicated to advancing awareness of how architecture enriches life, especially in Michigan. To accomplish our mission, we provide grants and scholarships to deserving institutions, organizations, and individuals that advance our mission through their work, actions, and dedication to architecture.
Within the first six months of the year, over $120,000 was awarded. Scholarships were presented to 16 deserving students, and various grants were given to eight institutions or other non-profit organizations.
As we continue to expand our grants and awards, we are diligently raising funds through our various events, including the annual ‘Fore a Great Cause’ golf outing. MAF’s largest fundraiser of the year was held during the 83rd annual AIA/AGC midsummer conference.
The 2026 MAF Leadership Award was awarded to Doug Kueffner, AIA. As president, I had the opportunity to surprise Doug with this announcement at our April board meeting. In addition, I also had the pleasure of presenting Doug with the Leadership Award plaque at the AIA Michigan Honor Awards in June. Congratulations Doug!
As we move forward with the remainder of the year, MAF will also be awarding the Fellows Fund for Equity Grant, which is a grant for recently licensed Black, Hispanic, Native American (and other individuals from underrepresented groups) architects who are actively practicing architecture. The grant is intended to help reduce their remaining student debt and/or as reimbursement for expenses associated with the licensing exams, while awarding performance, creativity, and perseverance. The deadline to apply is September 15th, and you can learn more about the grant here.
I hope everyone has a great remainder of the summer and can take advantage of the wonderful weather in Michigan for an architecture road trip (and consider following our Buildings for the Arts 2026 Road Trip series!)
Cheers
Jeff Hausman, FAIA, LEED AP