These individuals and allied organizations provided outstanding service to the membership of the chapter and the residents of Chicago.
Media Contact: David Chase, communications@aiachicago.org, (312) 376-2745
December 4, 2024, CHICAGO – AIA Chicago, the second largest local chapter of the American Institute of Architects and the collective voice of over 4,000 licensed architects, emerging professionals, architecture students, and allied professionals, today announced the recipients of the 2024 Distinguished Service Award: Jonathan Kelley and Chelsea Ridley of Lawndale Pop-Up Spot, as well as Chicago Women in Architecture (CWA) and the Chicago Women in Architecture Foundation (CWAF). These honorees exemplify outstanding service and dedication to advancing architecture and community impact in Chicago.
Jonathan Kelley and Chelsea Ridley have made transformative contributions to North Lawndale through the Lawndale Pop-Up Spot, an innovative community space fostering art, storytelling, and urban revitalization. Their work, including projects like Reimagining 16th Street and the Chicago Sukkah Design Festival, highlights the power of design to create meaningful connections and empower communities.
“AIA Chicago is thrilled to recognize Jonathan and Chelsea for their exceptional leadership in blending architecture and community-building. Their commitment to sustainability, equity, and public programming embodies the profound influence of architecture on creating resilient and inclusive neighborhoods,” said Peter Wojtowicz, AIA, Vice President of Honors and Awards, AIA Chicago.
Chicago Women in Architecture (CWA), celebrating its 50th anniversary, and the Chicago Women in Architecture Foundation (CWAF), established in 2003, have actively championed the visibility and advancement of women architects, creating a vital network of support and a collective voice for women. Through new impactful programs like Ladders to Leadership, which has successfully advanced women into leadership roles, and scholarships funded by the Gertrude Lempp Kerbis Scholarship, CWA and CWAF have significantly enriched Chicago’s architectural community. CWA is led by President Anh Pham, AIA. CWAF is led by Board Chair Grace Rappe, AIA.
“CWA and CWAF’s impact over the past five decades has been extraordinary. Their steadfast commitment to mentoring, career development, and advocacy has transformed the landscape of architecture for women and inspired countless professionals,” said Sara Beardsley, FAIA, Director of the AIA Chicago Board of Directors.
Since 1955, the AIA Chicago Board of Directors has recognized individuals and organizations who have provided outstanding service to the Chicago architectural community, including but not limited to, advancement or development of laws, regulations, policies, or initiatives that promote excellence in architecture; the commissioning of notable projects to the built environment; or activities that raise the public’s consciousness of the importance of excellent design in the shaping of our world and culture.
Any member of AIA Chicago may nominate themselves or an individual that meets these requirements. Upon receipt of nominations, the AIA Chicago Board of Directors selects the recipients at their discretion.
The 2024 Distinguished Service Award honorees will be celebrated at the Building Together: Awards Program and Holiday Open House on Wednesday December 4, 2024, at the Chicago Architecture Center and at AIA Chicago’s Members-Only Annual Meeting on Monday, December 9th, 2024.
About AIA Chicago
AIA Chicago serves nearly 4,000 architect members as the second-largest chapter of the American Institute of Architects. Its mission is to champion members by celebrating their impact, promoting learning, and advocating for a thriving architectural community. Through advocacy, professional development, and recognition programs, AIA Chicago fosters a culture of design excellence and equitable, sustainable practices.
For more information, visit www.aiachicago.org.
