2026 Honor Awards
A Celebration of Illinois Architects & Design
The AIA Illinois Honor Awards recognize people and projects epitomizing the contributions of the architecture profession, the transformative power of design, and the dedication of individuals to service and excellence. These Illinois‑based award recipients have made a lasting impact on communities throughout Illinois, the nation, and the world by creating places where people are drawn to live, work, and thrive.
Service Awards
Gold Medal for Lifetime Achievement
Robert G. Bohlmann, AIA
The highest honor bestowed by AIA Illinois, this lifetime achievement award recognizes a member for demonstrating time-honored leadership, significant contributions to AIA Illinois, and dedication to the profession.
Bob is celebrated as a guiding force and inspiration, known for his leadership, tireless work ethic, and lifelong devotion to the architectural profession. He founded RGB Architectural Group in Kankakee (1994–2016) and most recently served as executive director (now senior advisor) of the B. Harley Bradley House, Frank Lloyd Wright’s first Prairie style home.
The Champion Awards
The Champion Awards honor exemplary individuals who embody AIA Illinois’ mission to “champion the profession of architecture” and are change-makers in pursuit of our vision for “more vibrant & equitable communities for all.”
Champion Award for Equitable Practice
Kerl LaJeune, Assoc. AIA, NOMA
Director of Planning and Design, Public Building Commission of Chicago
Formerly the Alan Madison Award, this distinction acknowledges a member who is a positive change-maker and an inspiration to their fellow practitioners.
Champion Award for Public Service
Andrea Aggertt, AIA, NCARB
Architect of the Illinois State Capitol
Formerly the Charles W. Nothnagel Award, this honor celebrates a member’s dedication to public service through exemplary efforts at the local, state, or national level.
Champion Award for Social Impact
Yash Mehta, Assoc. AIA
Co-founder, Defining Humanity; Regional Design Technology Director, Gensler
Formerly the R. Buckminster Fuller Award, this honor highlights a member involved in humanitarian or community-driven projects.
Educator Award
Prof. Charles Pipal, AIA
Adjunct Full Professor, Dept. of Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Designed Objects; Coordinator, Historic Preservation Program, School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Formerly the Nathan Clifford Ricker Award, this honor recognizes a member’s outstanding dedication and contributions as an architecture educator in Illinois.
President's Award
Illinois Main Street is being celebrated for their 4-point approach that explicitly calls out "Design" as one of the pillars to creating successful main street revitalizations and their efforts tie into the AIA Illinois mission.
Bestowed by the President, this recognizes a person, group, or entity that has made outstanding contributions to the AIA Illinois mission & vision, as well as to the architectural profession at large.
Early Career Achievement Awards
The Early Career Achievement Awards recognize members who have shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the profession in the early stages of their career.
Young Architect
Giacomo Tinari, AIA
Ware Malcomb
Emerging Professional
Sheetal Vora, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP, WELL AP
Designer III, Perkins&Will
Join in recognizing these outstanding individuals who elevate and inspire our architectural community! Register ➜