Scholarships

AIA Mel Ferris Scholarship

The California Architectural Foundation originated in 1979, primarily with the purpose of administering grants and scholarships relating to the architectural profession and education in California. The Foundation administers the Mel Ferris Scholarship, the Built Environment Education Program (BEEP), and the William Turnbull Jr., FAIA, Environmental Education Grant. The foundation is the link between the profession and academia.

What is the Mel Ferris Scholarship?

Each year the California Architectural Foundation awards Mel Ferris Scholarships to qualified architecture students at California universities who have demonstrated financial need and exemplary academic and design achievements. The scholarship was named for Mel Ferris, Hon. AIA, who served as executive director of the AIA California Council from 1953 until his retirement in 1978. The scholarship is funded by contributions from California architects and firms who have joined efforts to recognize Ferris’ contribution and are awarded based upon:

Scholarships are awarded without regard to race, gender, age, physical abilities or religious beliefs. The scholarships are awarded annually by the California Architectural Foundation. It is the goal of the Foundation Board of Regents to award scholarships to support students’ endeavors throughout architectural school. Specifically, these funds are unrestricted and may be used to support all aspects of architectural studies (ie: funds may be used for items other than tuition expenses).

Dean's Choice

Deans Choice Award, the California Architectural Foundation is increasing its scholarship awards and had included this new award. The Deans Choice Award is a $500 prize award that will be available to the Dean of each of the ten accredited architectural schools in California. The Dean will then choose among the applicants.

2008 Award Recipients: Christopher M. Nikkel ($5,000), Kevin Dean Bussett ($3,000)

Herbert E. Collins Scholarship (Not Offered in 2008)

This scholarship, that is distributed among seven CAED students, is made possible through a generous endowment to the university in honor of Julian A. McPhee, the first president of Cal Poly. Upper division students (junior/senior/graduate) are selected for their academic achievement, industriousness and display of overall fine character.

Note: Picked by School representatives in consultation with Department Heads

Zimmer Gunsul Frasca, Architects LLP Scholarship

This scholarship is intended to recognize and foster students who have a demonstrated talent and passion for architecture. This $ 5,000 annual stipend will be awarded to an admitted architecture student who is in a fourth year (entering fifth year) or master's program at select colleges and universities. The funds are awarded for the coming academic year.

Criteria: The recipient shall demonstrate the ability to produce quality architectural design and dedication to personal development in the field of architecture.

Qualified candidates will be recommended by faculty members of the Architecture Department.
Applications must be received no later than May 1.

Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Scholarship Application (.pdf)
Zimmer Gunsul Frasca web site

Internships

Dr. Glenn G. McRae Internship ($3,000)

Open to all junior or senior level students in the CAED, this award, shared among four students, is based on scholastic achievement, evidence of interest in university and multi-cultural activities and demonstrated competence in graphics and design. Interns will provide graphics and design tutorial assistance in the CAED's learning assistance program. One of the principal intentions of the award is to rekindle the caring spirit so aptly demonstrated by Dr. McRae during his counseling career at Cal Poly and his assignment to work with CAED students and assist them in life's problems.

2008 Architecture Award Recipient:

Professional Organization Awards

AIA California Central Coast Chapter ($500)

This scholarship is to support the study of architecture and the pursuit of an architectural career, the American Institute of Architects Central Coast Chapter (AIACCC) awards an annual $500 scholarship to one 4th year architecture student attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

Applicant must be a 4th year architecture major in good standing at Cal Poly SLO as of January 2008. Cal Poly SLO 4th year architecture students at the San Luis Obispo campus or those studying architecture in a 4th year off-campus program are eligible.

Selection will be based on verification of 4th year status, Written Goal Statement, and Sample Graphics Review. AIACCC Scholarship Committee will review all applications and select the applicant that best demonstrates architectural talent, creativity and professional promise. If two or more applicants are considered of equal merit, preference may be given to AIAS member applicants.

2008 Award Recipient: David J. Pearson

2009 Award Information

For 2009 information and application forms go to the AIACCC Scholarships & Awards web page.

Application Deadline: 5pm, Friday, May 29th, 2009
Applications are due to the Architecture Department (05-212A), or via email to aiacentralcoast@gmail.com.

AIA Henry Adams Medal

The American Institute of Architects recognizes two top-ranking graduating students in accredited programs with an engraved medal and certificate of merit. The award program began in 1914 and was formerly called "The School Medal." Named in honor of the author of the book Mont. St Michel and Chartres, The purpose of the award is to recognize students for their general excellence in architecture throughout their course of studies. The recipient is a graduating senior with the highest grade point average in the Architecture Department.

2009 Award Recipient: Sarah Cutler

AIA Henry Adams Certificate of Merit

The second recognition from the American Institute of Architects is awarded to the architecture graduating senior with the second highest grade point average.

2009 Award Recipient: Kaitlin Barton

Alpha Rho Chi Medal

Established in 1931, Alpha Rho Chi, the National Professional Fraternity for Architecture and the allied arts promotes the profession of architecture by encouraging students to excel. The members of Alpha Rho Chi believe the profession of architecture needs strong leaders as much as it needs strong designers. The recipient is committed to public service and shows merit beyond the design studio and academic career. Nominated by architecture faculty, this medal honors a graduating senior for outstanding achievements.

2009 Award Recipients: Bonnie Miller and Evan Fraser

University Senior Recognition Awards

Academic Excellence

This award is given to the graduating seniors that exemplify the University's highest standards of achievement as determined by grade point average. This is the only award presented during the June Commencement ceremonies.

Contribution to the Objectives and Public Image of the University

This award is given to a graduation senior who has made notable contributions to the University as a whole. Emphasis is on participation in University-wide organizations, committees and special projects. Students are nominated to receive thisa ward by faculty and their fellow students as a consequence of their distinguished involvement.

2008 Architect Award Recipient: Carly E. Steele

Contribution to the Objectives and Public Image of the College

The graduating senior who receives this award is recognized for outstanding contributions to the University's objectives and public image. Emphasis is on participation in college-wide organizations, committees and special projects. Students are nominated to receive this award by faculty and fellow students as a consequence of their distinguished involvement.

2008 Architect Award Recipient: Stephanie N. Green

Service to the Community

This award honors a graduating senior, nominated by faculty and/or peers, who has shown exemplary service contribution to the off-campus community. Students nominated to receive this award have demonstrated a high level of volunteer service with exceptional positive benefit to the off-campus community.

2008 Architecture Award Recipient: Christopher M. Nikkel

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