CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Foundation for Architecture (WVFA) has announced the recipients of its 2025 scholarships, recognizing outstanding West Virginia students in architecture programs who demonstrate exceptional potential and dedication to the field. This year, seven students were selected, with awards totaling $9,500.
The scholarship program supports students pursuing architectural degrees, helping to alleviate financial barriers as they work toward their goals of shaping the built environment. Since the scholarship program’s inception in 1986, over $324,300 has been awarded to 139 students pursuing an education in architecture. Funds have been generated by decades of contributions from members, community partners, and advocates for the profession of architecture. These contributions underscore the importance of investing in the future of West Virginia’s architectural profession.
The AIA West Virginia Scholarship Committee annually reviews applications and determines the award of scholarship funds designated by the Foundation.
The 2025 recipient of the Foundation’s annual scholarship award to West Virginia students pursuing a degree in architecture is:
• Hannah Driggs of Charleston, WV – $4,000
Hannah is a fourth-year student at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she is expected to graduate in 2026 with a Bachelor of Architecture degree.
This year, the Committee selected six students who are currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Architecture program at Fairmont State University for awards. FSU’s Master of Architecture program recently received accreditation from the National Council of Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), exemplifying the institution’s commitment to fostering the next generation of architects in West Virginia.
The recipients of the Fairmont State University Third Year Awards are:
• Annie Pierson-Escalona – $1,000
• Zachary Taylor – $1,000
• Victoria (Tori) Metz – $500
The recipients of the Fairmont State University, Jeffrey Mayfield Award is:
• Tristin Sharp – $1,500
Additional recipients in their Fourth Year of study at Fairmont State University are:
• Baylie Ostvig – $1,000
• Kyle Kutcher – $500
Recipients and their families are invited to celebrate their achievements at the annual AIA West Virginia Design Awards & Scholarship Gala, to be held on May 3, 2025, in Charleston, WV.
AIA West Virginia Scholarship Committee Chair, Phoebe Patton Randolph, AIA, said, “It is an honor to lead the committee charged with the award of these critical scholarships supporting the future of architecture in our state. These scholarships are a long-term investment in the critical role that West Virgina’s architects play in informing thoughtful, beautiful, and sustainable planning and design. These voices are even more important as our state experiences continued growth and prosperity.”
For more information about the WVFA, its scholarship program, or how to support aspiring architects, please visit www.aiawv.org.
About the WVFA:
The West Virginia Foundation for Architecture is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting architectural education, advocacy for the built environment, and fostering a thriving architectural community in West Virginia.