Congratulations to the FIU Department of Architecture for proudly representing the FIU School of Architecture at the 2026 AIA Florida Convention, whose theme was Design Together: The Emergent Properties of Leadership, Mentorship, and Business Success. The event highlighted the exceptional work and achievements of our students, faculty, and alumni through prestigious awards, project recognition, and thought leadership.
Student Awards
AIA National Medal for Academic Excellence
Maria Perez Castaneda, M.Arch. ’26
Maria Perez Castaneda, ‘26 received the AIA National Medal for Academic Excellence, one of the highest recognitions awarded to graduating architecture students. Formerly known as the AIA Henry Adams Medal, this national honor recognizes the top-ranking graduating students in architecture programs and celebrates individuals who demonstrate outstanding achievement throughout their academic careers in NAAB-accredited professional degree programs.
Merit Award for Student Theoretical and Research Excellence
Image by Andrea Rodriguez
Ground and Stage
South Miami, FL
Andrea Rodriguez – Florida International University
Andrea Rodriguez received a Merit Award in Theoretical and Research Excellence for Ground and Stage, a project completed under the guidance of Professor Felipe Mesa in the Comprehensive Design Studio and recognized for its design excellence and contribution to the field of architecture.
Citation Award for Student Theoretical and Research Excellence
Edge Library
Posada Miradas, Galipán, Venezuela
Gneiss Aramburu and Gabriela Ascanio – Florida International University
Gneiss Aramburu ‘26 and Gabriela Ascanio ‘26 jointly received a Citation Award in Theoretical and Research. Excellence for Edge Library, an Architectural Design 8 Studio project completed under the guidance of Professor Alfredo Andia. The award was conferred in recognition of its thoughtful approach to design, context, and architectural exploration.
Professional Awards | Faculty
Citation Award for Object Design
Staggered Gaps: Townhouse Porch Screens
Miami, FL
Jason R. Chandler, FAIA
Chandler and Associates, Architecture, P.A.
Professor Jason Chandler, FAIA, Chair of the Department of Architecture, received a Citation Award in Object Design for Staggered Gaps: Townhouse Porch Screens, recognizing the project’s innovative response to residential design for the subtropics and for its contribution to Miami’s architectural landscape.
Professional Awards | Alumni
Honor Award for Unbuilt Design
Koupela University
Koupela, Burkina Faso
The father and son team of Jose Lobo (B.F.A. Architectural Technology, FIU, 1991) and Diego Lobo (Master of Architecture, FIU, 2026), both of SOW Design Studio received an Honor Award for Koupela University. The project reflects the lasting impact of FIU Architecture alumni and their commitment to meaningful design solutions around the world.
Exhibition
All the award-winning projects were exhibited throughout the AIA Florida Convention, as were the winners of the AIA Miami Student of the Year Award, Andrea Rodriguez ‘26; the AIA Florida Bronze Medal, Stephanie Sisco, ‘26; and the AIA National Medal for Academic Excellence, Maria Perez Castañeda, ‘26.
Faculty Panels and Leadership
In addition to award recognition, FIU Architecture faculty contributed to important conversations shaping the future of architectural education and practice.
Marilys R. Nepomechie, FAIA, DPACSA, Professor and Associate Dean for Architecture, led the educational panel “Co-Designing the Space Between Academia and Application,” exploring the transition between architectural education and professional practice.
Jason R. Chandler, FAIA, Chair and Associate Professor, participated in the panel “Florida’s Missing Middle Housing: From Case Study Review to Policy Solutions,” sharing his work and contributing expertise on housing challenges and opportunities across the state.
Congratulations to our students, faculty, and alumni on their research-driven creative work, scholarship, and leadership. Their commitment to design excellence continues to showcase the impact and influence of architectural education at the FIU School of Architecture.
