The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Tampa Bay Chapter hosted its annual Honor and Design Awards, celebrating exceptional contributions to the field of architecture. Several faculty members from the 最新天美传媒鈥檚 College of Design, Art & Performance received prestigious awards, recognizing their commitment to education, mentorship, and innovative design.
Steve Cooke, an associate professor at USF, was presented with the President鈥檚 Award, which honors his 37-year career dedicated to architectural education, research, and community advocacy. Cooke has made significant contributions to mentoring future architects and fostering a deeper appreciation for the role of architecture in creating meaningful spaces. His work has left a lasting impact on both the academic and professional communities in Tampa Bay and beyond.
Other USF faculty were also recognized for their accomplishments in design. Michael Halflants, professor and principal at Halflants + Pichette Studio for Modern Architecture, received a Merit Award in the Unbuilt category for his Oriole Residence project. This design offers a forward-thinking perspective on live-work environments, addressing contemporary needs with innovative solutions. Nathan Boyd, adjunct faculty and principal of Aetherworks Design, earned a Merit Award in the Unbuilt category for the Decatur Island Retreat, which was commended for its seamless integration with the natural landscape.
Leah Crowe, adjunct faculty, was honored with the Kelley Emerging Professional Award. This recognition highlights her leadership and dedication to mentoring the next generation of architects, as well as her contributions to the architectural community. Additionally, Logan Desaulniers, an adjunct faculty member and recent student, received a Merit Award in the Student Category for his project, 鈥淩espite by Escape.鈥� The project was celebrated for its creative use of media and its ability to tell a compelling story through architectural design.
These awards underscore the College of Design, Art & Performance鈥檚 commitment to excellence and innovation. Faculty achievements not only enrich the academic community but also inspire students to push the boundaries of architectural design. For more information on USF's School of Architecture & Community Design, visit USF SACD. To learn more about the AIA Tampa Bay Honor and Design Awards, visit AIA Tampa Bay.