The Board of Directors and the Strategic Council of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) announce recipients for the 2019 Whitney Young Jr. Award, Topaz Medallion and Kemper Award.

The recipient of the 2019 Whitney M. Young Jr. Award is Karen L. Braitmayer, FAIA, who has created a more inclusive and just environment for all by promoting equity and inclusion through her consulting work and education efforts. Nationally recognized for her leadership and advocacy for civil rights for people with disabilities, Braitmayer has pushed physical and social barriers for herself and others. Learn more about Braitmayer on AIA’s website.

The 2019 AIA/ACSA Topaz Medallion for Excellence in Architectural Education is awarded to Toshiko Mori, FAIA. Mori is firmly planted in two realms—academia and practice—and she challenges her students to become educator-practitioners themselves. Mori, a Harvard University Graduate School of Design professor, harnesses academic inquiry and professional rigor to reshape the practice of architecture. Learn more about Mori on AIA’s website.

The recipient of the 2019 Edward C. Kemper Award is Robert T. Coles, FAIA. Coles has leveraged education, activism and mentorship to advance the profession for more than 50 years. His pursuit to build a model of inclusionary excellence at all levels of the AIA is exemplary. Learn more about Coles on AIA’s website.