by: Vaughn Lewis, Assoc. AIA, Architects Foundation Board Committee Chair
As a proud board member of the Architects Foundation, I’m honored to share my deep belief in the power of scholarships to transform lives—and in our responsibility as a foundation to build pathways for the next generation of architects.
I know this firsthand. Throughout my academic journey, I was fortunate to receive several transformative scholarships, including the Next Generation Scholarship—formerly the AIA/AF Diversity Scholarship—and the Architects Foundation/McAslan Fellowship. These opportunities enabled me to explore architecture across continents, revealing how the built environment both shapes and is shaped by the diverse cultures and communities it serves. These experiences expanded my worldview and deepened my commitment to design, equity, and service.
For the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as chair of the Architects Foundation’s Scholar Selection and Support Committee. In this role, I’ve continued to witness the enduring spirit of service reflected in the Next Generation Scholarship—established in 1970 in response to Whitney M. Young Jr.’s urgent call for a more just and inclusive profession. To this day, it remains a powerful vehicle for supporting students from all backgrounds who are passionate about architecture and driven to make a difference.
This year, many organizations face challenges that threaten their ability to support students in pursuing their education. In this moment, our role as a foundation is more critical than ever. We have a duty to advocate for our scholars and to ensure they have the resources and community they need as they begin their architectural journeys.
Our goal remains clear: to cultivate a profession that reflects the full richness and diversity of the communities it serves—and to uplift the future designers and changemakers who will shape our built environment for generations to come.
Together, we are building a more inclusive, inspired, and impactful architectural landscape.
Sincerely,
Vaughn Lewis | Assoc. AIA, NOMA
Scholar Selection and Support Committee Chair
