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Mallikarjun Gudoor (M.ARCH 1st Year) knows the importance of a strong community. It’s what brought him to apply for—and win—an American Institute of Architects �糵���� scholarship that is awarded to outstanding individuals who bring unique perspectives and ideas to the field.

Gudoor was loosely involved with the organization during his undergraduate years at the University of Illinois �糵����, but as he switched gears for graduate school, he “wanted to be very proactive in terms of engaging the community.”

“Applying for the scholarship was another way to see if the community resonated with my work and how they could refine it over time,” Gudoor says.

Gudoor, along with Mistika Jimenez (B.ARCH 4th Year), was awarded the 2022 AIA �糵���� Foundation Diversity Scholarship, which is meant to be “an opportunity to attract and retain diverse, talented young professionals in �糵���� and recognizes the value of new and unique voices in the profession.”

The two winners are not the first IIT College of Architecture students to earn the award; both of the 2021 recipients studied at the College of Architecture as well. Only two students from �糵����-area colleges, including the School of the Art Institute of �糵���� and UIC, are chosen each year.

“The Diversity Scholarship builds the pipeline to ensure our profession has every voice represented at the table. I am thrilled to have Mallikarjun and Mistika join the ranks of our brilliant past and current scholars,” says Chris-Annmarie Spencer, president of AIA �糵���� Foundation Board of Trustees.

In addition to a $10,000 scholarship to further their studies, Gudoor and Jimenez will be mentored by members of AIA �糵����, as well as receive access to events.

Photo: [From left] AIA �糵���� scholarship award winners Mallikarjun Gudoor (M.ARCH 1st Year) and Mistika Jimenez (B.ARCH 4th Year) (provided)