Nominations Invited for 2021 Community Enhancement Through Architecture & Design Awards
DES MOINES, IOWA, May 17, 2021 - Iowa Architectural Foundation invites state-wide nominations for its 2021 Community Enhancement Through Architecture and Design awards. The awards recognize those individuals, organizations, agencies, or communities, outside the architectural profession, who have had a significant and positive impact on the quality of life in Iowa through their support of architecture and/or urban design. Winners will have demonstrated consistent and effective leadership, vision, and support for architecture which has contributed to the betterment of any Iowa community(s).
Last year, John and Mary Pappajohn of Des Moines received the award for their leadership, vision and sustained philanthropy, enabling significant building projects at the University of Iowa and in Des Moines, including the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. The second recipient for the 2020 award was Grinnell College, which was selected for their outstanding and sustained vision and leadership in architecture and planning. Other recipients include the Ruan family, the Greater Des Moines Partnership, the City of Des Moines and the University of Iowa.
Claudia Cackler, IAF's Executive Director said about the program, "It takes more than architects and design professionals to make Iowa communities great places in which to live, work, and play. It also takes the vision, commitment, and resources of those members of our communities who share a common goal. We feel it is important to recognize those who embrace architectural excellence to advance their communities."
A committee, including public members and volunteers of the IAF, will review the initial submissions, after which a jury composed of architects and non-architects will select the award recipients. Submissions selected for recognition will be notified no later than August 15, 2021.
Anyone can nominate candidates. All nominations must be received electronically or hard copy by 5 PM, June 30, 2021. For more information and nomination forms, please visit IAF's website. Digital entries are encouraged, but if you prefer to send a hard copy nomination, please mail it to: Iowa Architectural Foundation, 400 Locust St., Ste. 100 Des Moines, IA 50309. (Offices at the Iowa Center for Architecture are currently closed but mail is being monitored.)
It is not known at this time whether the awards will be presented virtually or at a live gathering, but hte presentation will be sometime in October 2021. Questions relating to the awards may be directed to IAF Chairman Jeff Shaffer, AIA, at jshaffer@bnim.com or IAF Executive Director Claudia Cackler, director@iowaarchfoundation.org or (515) 669-5629.
About the Iowa Architectural Foundation
The Iowa Architectural Foundation (IAF) was founded 32 years ago to speak to the public about why architecture is important, with a mission to inspire an appreciation for architecture and design. As a 501 (c)(3) public foundation, our primary purpose is education. We offer public lectures and tours to provide a new lens for viewing and understanding our built environment. Ultimately, our success will inspire IOwans to engage in design issues and consider high standards as they build and shape their communities.