Introduction:
The field of architecture plays a significant role in shaping the physical world around us. However, the profession has historically struggled with diversity and inclusion, particularly in terms of representation of Black professionals. To address this issue, many organizations, institutions, and individuals have taken steps to provide scholarships and other forms of financial support to Black students pursuing careers in architecture. In this article, we will discuss some of the scholarships available specifically for Black students in architecture.
NOMA Foundation Scholarships:
The National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) Foundation offers a range of scholarships for minority students pursuing degrees in architecture. One of the scholarships available specifically for Black students is the AIA/AAF NOMA Scholarship. This scholarship provides financial support to students who demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the field of architecture.
Diversity Advancement Scholarship:
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) offers the Diversity Advancement Scholarship, which is open to students from underrepresented backgrounds pursuing a degree in architecture. This scholarship provides financial assistance to cover tuition and other education-related expenses.
The Richard Upjohn Fellowship:
The Richard Upjohn Fellowship is a scholarship program offered by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) to support minority students pursuing a graduate degree in architecture. The fellowship provides financial support to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses.
The Architects Foundation Scholarship:
The Architects Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides scholarships and other forms of support to students pursuing degrees in architecture. The organization offers several scholarships specifically for minority students, including the Diversity Advancement Scholarship and the Payette Sho-Ping Chin Memorial Academic Scholarship.
The Thurgood Marshall College Fund:
The Thurgood Marshall College Fund is a non-profit organization that provides scholarships and other forms of support to students attending historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). While not specifically for architecture students, the organization’s scholarship programs can provide valuable financial support to Black students pursuing degrees in architecture at HBCUs.
Conclusion:
Scholarships can provide critical financial support to Black students pursuing degrees in architecture, a field that has historically struggled with diversity and inclusion. By investing in these students, organizations, institutions, and individuals can help to create a more inclusive and diverse profession that reflects the communities it serves. These scholarships are just a few examples of the many resources available to Black students in architecture, and we encourage all students to seek out additional support and opportunities to achieve their educational and professional goals.
