Two architecture students inducted into AIAS CRIT Scholar Program

The College of Architecture is pleased to announce Master of Architecture students Angel Coleman and Quinlan McFadden have recently been accepted into the 2022 American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) CRIT Scholar Program.

According to AIAS the research-based CRIT Scholar program is supported by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in partnership with several prominent architecture firms. The program aims to support student research and serves as an exclusive opportunity for students to receive further guidance on their own research from a professional advisor. The long-term objective is to encourage students to be actively involved in furthering architectural innovation in support of the design profession through mentored research projects embedded in academia and practice.

Each recipient will receive a $1,000 grant for their research project and will be personally matched with a mentor involved in conducting research at an architectural firm. Mentorship from this practitioner will further assist them with their projects by giving them a practical perspective on their work as well as insights into working at an architectural firm.

McFadden’s research will explore how the combination of building typologies and land uses can achieve attainable housing strategies through density while optimizing visual conformity. Through this research exploration, McFadden aims to bring strategic changes in zoning and regulation along with new and more diverse housing types to the city of Lincoln and its surrounding communities. His assigned mentor will be announced at a later date.

Coleman’s research involves looking at reinventing the high school. Her research will investigate the aspects of architecture and design that create a school where every student can find a space to learn and a place to belong. Olivia Graf Doyle, principal and partner at Architecture for Education in Pasadena, California, has been assigned as her mentor.

Including McFadden and Coleman, the college has had four CRIT scholars accepted into the program, the first being Evan Wermers in 2018 and Jati Zunaibi in 2020.

“We are proud to have Quinn and Angel selected into the 2022 CRIT Scholar program and continue the College’s strong representation in this program. Their research questions will help identify new considerations to help shape the future of the built environment,” said Architecture Program Director David Karle.

“I’ve watched Quinn and Angel mature into thoughtful and creative designers and leaders, and I couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishments and the wonderful opportunities that await them,” said Sharon Kuska, interim dean for the College of Architecture.