Scholarships

The Michigan Architectural Foundation Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to college students admitted to, or currently pursuing a graduate professional degree in architecture at accredited Michigan universities, and who have demonstrated leadership in design, professional, community, or political activities.

The Robinson Scholarship is designated for an undergraduate student in architecture completing the first year of architectural studies at the University of Michigan.

The AIA Grand Rapids Scholarships are designated for undergraduate or graduate students pursuing a career in architecture, and are preferred to be a resident of the AIAGR Chapter region attending any college or university. Applicants may also be a non-resident attending a college or university in the AIAGR Chapter region.

Currently, MAF awards scholarships ranging in value from $1000 to $8000.

Please note that the application forms, submittal requirements are different for the Robinson scholarship, the AIA Grand Rapids undergraduate scholarship, and the MAF graduate scholarships (application forms are available for download, right).

The deadline for all scholarship applications and materials is March 15 of the award year.

Submit MAF applications and supporting materials to Jeff Hausman, FAIA:


Phone
313-610-8826
Email
MAFScholarships@outlook.com

Criteria For Selection

Eligibility

All candidates must be:

  • For graduate scholarships, students who are completing or have completed their Bachelor’s Degree program and who have been accepted or are currently enrolled in an accredited professional program in architecture leading to a Master of Architecture degree.
  • Residents of the State of Michigan and/or enrolled in architecture programs attending the University of Michigan, University of Detroit/Mercy, Lawrence Technological University, Kendall College, Andrews University, or Ferris State University.
  • The Robinson Scholarship is designated for an undergraduate student completing the first year of architectural studies at the University of Michigan only.
  • The AIA Grand Rapids Undergraduate Scholarship is designated for an undergraduate student in architectural studies at a college or university in the AIA Grand Rapids area.

Application Process

Entry Requirements

Applications must be digital-only and submitted via email in PDF format. (see the page’s introduction for email address). File sizes should be no greater than 20MB. The files must be PC compatible with font size no smaller than 10 point. Photos and graphic material must be in .jpg or .pdf format.

The following data are required from each candidate:

  • A completed application form downloaded from the Michigan Architectural Foundation website
  • A transcript of all college records
  • A personal statement with the following:
    • The candidate’s interest, experience and plans related to architecture
    • A statement describing leadership, design, and or community accomplishments of the candidate
    • An outline of the candidate’s extracurricular and public service activities
  • A PDF copy of the student’s design portfolio that was submitted for acceptance by the university to their graduate program, (the Robinson Scholarship and AIA Grand Rapids Undergraduate Scholarship portfolio requirements are different; please see the individual application forms)
  • Two reference letters from individuals familiar with your accomplishments. One of the reference letters must be by a faculty member of your university
  • School costs and personal financial information as requested on the application

Required Data for MAF Graduate Scholarships

  • Graduate Scholarship Application Form downloaded from the Michigan Architectural Foundation website.

Required Data for the Robinson Scholarship

  • Robinson Scholarship Application Form downloaded from the Michigan Architectural Foundation website.

Required Data for the AIA Grand Rapids Undergraduate Scholarship

  • AIA Grand Rapids Undergraduate Scholarship Application Form downloaded from the Michigan Architectural Foundation website.

Selection Process

 

  • The Michigan Architectural Foundation has the sole authority for granting the scholarship awards. The scholarship recipients are selected by a jury of AIA members and selected scholarship sponsors and donors. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic performance, design, community involvement, demonstrated leadership and financial need.
  • All selections are considered final. All applications and attachments become the property of the MAF.
  • Scholarship funds are for tuition and direct educational expenses only. Award funds will be sent directly to the university attended by all scholarship winners.
  • All scholarship awards will be announced late April of the award year.

 

Featured Recipient

Angel Mangham

For MAF 2023 Scholarship Winner Angel Mangham, inspiration to pursue a career in architecture came when she was six years old.

“ I enjoyed watching HGTV and making wooden models, and asked my parents who creates buildings,” said Angel. “They told me architects, and I was sold. Even though I investigated other careers and had other interests, I always came back to architecture.”

Read Angel's Story

01AIA Grand Rapids Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships (1 of 2)

$2,000
Description

The AIA Grand Rapids Scholarships are designated for undergraduate or graduate students pursuing a career in architecture with preference given to residents of the AIAGR Chapter region attending any college or university. Scholarship applicants may also be non-residents attending a college or university in the AIAGR Chapter region.

Prize

$2,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Ian Wardowski

AIA Grand Rapids awarded two scholarships in 2023, both to graduate students at Kendall College of Art and Design. AIA Grand Rapids scholarship recipient Ian Wardowski exhibited an outstanding academic record and continuing leadership in AIAS.

02AIA Grand Rapids Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships (2 of 2)

$2,000
Description

The AIA Grand Rapids Scholarships are designated for undergraduate or graduate students pursuing a career in architecture with preference given to residents of the AIAGR Chapter region attending any college or university. Scholarship applicants may also be non-residents attending a college or university in the AIAGR Chapter region.

Prize

$2,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Kyle Sutton

AIA Grand Rapids awarded two scholarships in 2023, both to graduate students at Kendall College of Art and Design. AIA Grand Rapids scholarship recipient Kyle Sutton is a Grand Rapids native who demonstrated strong community leadership and academic excellence.

03Paul Stachowiak & Integrated Design Solutions Scholarship

$2,000
Description

Awarded to a University of Michigan, University of Detroit Mercy or Lawrence Technological University student admitted or currently pursuing a graduate professional degree in architecture and who aspires to a career reflecting a holistic and integrated practice of the highest standards of the profession of architecture.

Prize

$2,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Rebecca Gladd

The Paul Stachowiak & Integrated Design Solutions Scholarship in the amount of $2,000 was awarded to Rebecca Gladd, who is a rising graduate student at the University of Detroit Mercy. Her commitment to integrated practice with engineering, active mentorship, and impressive references made this award an excellent choice.

Recent Recipients
  • 2022 Sophie Pacelko University of Michigan
  • 2021 Rosa Manzo University of Michigan
  • 2020 Alexander SulekUniversity of Michigan

04AIA Michigan President’s Scholarship

$8,000
Description

Founded by AIA Michigan’s past presidents, the scholarship is for graduate students in architecture that have demonstrated leadership in professional, community or public service activities.

Prize

$8,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Angel Mangham

The AIA Michigan President’s Scholarship of $8,000 was awarded to Angel Mangham, a graduate student at the University Detroit Mercy. Her outstanding portfolio, strong leadership skills with AIAS and NOMA as well as excellent references made her an outstanding choice for this important award.

Recent Recipients
  • 2022 Hanen MohammadUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2021 Rosa ManzoUniversity of Michigan
  • 2020 Taylor KileUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2019 Logan FlowersUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2018 Juan Arias-HernandezUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2017 Bethany GibsonUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2016 Nicole FrickeUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2015 Meaghan MarkiewiczLawrence Technological University

05Richard M. and Sidney K. Robinson Scholarship

$4,000
Description

Awarded to a University of Michigan undergraduate architecture student who aspires to a career that combines the roles of citizen and artist. This award is offered in cooperation with the Huron Valley Chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

Prize

$4,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Tala Dababna

The Richard M. and Sidney K. Robinson Scholarship in the amount of $4,000 was awarded to Tala Dababna, who is completing the first year at the University of Michigan. Her strong essay demonstrating a desire and understanding of architecture based on both citizenship and artistic pursuits was expressed clearly in her writing and other materials submitted for the award.

Recent Recipients
  • 2022 Riley MontgomeryUniversity of Michigan
  • 2021 McKenna SabonUniversity of Michigan
  • 2020 Jacob NugentUniversity of Michigan
  • 2019 Natsume OnoUniversity of Michigan
  • 2018 Jasmine AlmomarUniversity of Michigan
  • 2017 Ellis Wills BegleyUniversity of Michigan

06Katherine and John Banicki Scholarship

$3,000
Description

Awarded in recognition of a student’s academic and community achievements.

Prize

$3,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Giovanni Zora

The Katherine and John Banicki Scholarship in the amount of $2,000 was awarded to Giovanni Zora, a rising graduate student at the University of Detroit Mercy. His leadership at UDM and community involvement led to his award.

Recent Recipients
  • 2022 Wud AldulaimyUniversity of Michigan
  • 2021 Jenna AtkinsonLawrence Technological University
  • 2020 Ryan JohnsLawrence Technological University
  • 2019 Sarah BritainUniversity of Michigan
  • 2018 Salvatore LorenzanoUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2017 Leonardo OrozcoUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2016 Estrellita PerezUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2015 Rachel CraneKendall College of Art and Design

07Leslie D. Tincknell Scholarship

$8,000
Description

Awarded to a student that exhibits leadership in university and community life, and financial need.

Prize

$8,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Marcus Puste

The Leslie Tincknell Scholarship in the amount of $8,000 was awarded to Marcus Puste, a graduate student at the University of Detroit Mercy. He was recognized for his outstanding academic record and wide ranging design impact, as well as a promising portfolio.

Recent Recipients
  • 2022 Grace CliffordUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2021 Jake StuckLawrence Technological University
  • 2020 Angela LazarteUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2019 Muhamad NaqshbandiUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2018 Ayomide OkunlolaUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2017 Jacob KleeUniversity of Detroit Mercy

08Kenneth Neumann Design Scholarship

$2,000
Description

The Kenneth Neumann Design Scholarship is awarded to a graduate architecture student based on the design and writing excellence of the submitted application portfolio. The scholarship includes a summer internship with the firm of Neumann/Smith Associates in Southfield, Michigan.

Prize

$2,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Larissa McCoy

The Kenneth Neumann Design Scholarship of $2,000 was awarded to Larissa McCoy, a graduate student at University of Detroit Mercy. Her skill in writing as a professional, creative portfolio, and evident leadership with NOMA were among the reasons Larissa was selected for the award.

Recent Recipients
  • 2022 Hayden PrillwitzKendall College of Design
  • 2021 Spencer LippertLawrence Technological University.
  • 2020 Alexander Sulek University of Michigan
  • 2019 Sarah BritainUniversity of Michigan
  • 2018 Matthew NorthcottUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2017 Kyle DiMaggioLawrence Technological University
  • 2016 Ian TempletonUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2015 Samantha SzeszulskiUniversity of Detroit Mercy

09Daniel W. Toshach Scholarship

$2,000
Description

Awarded to a deserving student with a well-rounded application and portfolio. Preference will be given to applicants from the area served by the AIA Saginaw Valley Chapter.

Prize

$2,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Makenna Karst

The Daniel W. Toshach & AIA Saginaw Valley Chapter Scholarship in the amount of $2,000 was awarded to Makenna Karst, a graduate of Ferris State University and a rising graduate student at the University of Michigan. This all-around excellent student included leadership activity with AIAS as well as an impressive academic record.

Recent Recipients
  • 2022 Grace CooleyUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2021 Taylor KileUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2020 Jessica BrethourLawrence Technological University
  • 2019 Muhamad NaqshbandiUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2018 Eric MintonUniversity of Michigan
  • 2017 Brianna CampbellLawrence Technological University
  • 2015 Rami NigaUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2014 Spencer JaskiewiczUniversity of Detroit Mercy

10Alvin Ernest Harley Scholarship

$2,000
Description

Awarded in recognition to a deserving student who demonstrates active participation and leadership involvement in the local AIAS Chapter.

Prize

$2,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Brian Hamel

The HED Alvin Ernest Harley AIAS Graduate Scholarship of $1,500 was awarded to Brian Hamel, a graduate student at the University of Detroit Mercy. His very active participation in the AIAS chapter and strong commitment to a career in the profession, as well as outstanding portfolio of his work, stood out for this student.

Recent Recipients
  • 2022 Tamzid JaigirdarUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2021 Sean GuireyKendall College of Art and Design
  • 2020 Anthony VannoyUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2019 Natalie MaaloufUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2018 Jade PymanKendall College of Art and Design
  • 2017 Claire AntrassianUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2016 Michael McKinnonKendall College of Art and Design
  • 2015 Courtney Vallier ParksKendall College of Art and Design

11PCIA Scholarship

$2,000
Description

The Professional Concepts Insurance Agency (PCIA) Scholarship is to recognize and provide financial assistance to individuals with exemplary community involvement.

Prize

$2,000

2023 Recipient
Michigan Architectural Foundation | MAF

Odette Giorgees

The Professional Concepts Insurance Agency Scholarship in the amount of $1,000 was awarded to Odette Giorgees, who is completing her graduate degree at the University of Detroit Mercy. Her all around excellence in academics, writing and community leadership as well as a passion for the profession made her the appropriate choice for the award.

Recent Recipients
  • 2022 Areej ShahinUniversity of Michigan
  • 2021 Madison Girolamo University of Detroit Mercy
  • 2020 Taylor KileUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2019 Thaddeus StawiarskiUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2018 Alyssa MonroeUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2015 Matthew MedleyUniversity of Detroit Mercy
  • 2014 Charles HarrisLawrence Technological University
  • 2013 Spencer JaskiewiczUniversity of Detroit Mercy