LPA’s Diversity in Design Scholarship Returns for 2026
The AIA Firm Award winner is supporting students whose voices and perspectives are essential to the future of design.
LPA Design Studios is now accepting applications for its Diversity in Design Scholarship, a program that supports and mentors the next generation of architects, designers and engineers. The scholarship, part of the firm’s social-impact initiative LPA for Change, addresses the lack of diversity in the design and engineering professions. It’s open to high school seniors, recent graduates and college students from underrecognized communities in California and Texas.
Since its launch in 2020, the program has awarded approximately $220,000 to 23 students, helping them pursue their degrees while building meaningful relationships with practicing professionals. While previously limited to five scholarships, this year, up to eight recipients will receive a $5,000 award that can be renewed annually (for up to five years) to help relieve some of the pressure of academic expenses, so they can focus on their studies, studio work and early professional experiences.
Beyond funding, the scholarship offers mentorship from LPA professionals in the students’ areas of study. Each scholar is paired with a mentor who can help them navigate studio culture, portfolio development, internship searches and the transition from school to practice. Recipients also receive priority consideration for paid internships at LPA, giving them a chance to gain further hands-on experience in an integrated design firm.
“Design guides learning, work and connection — and those who design our spaces should reflect the communities within them,” said LPA CEO Wendy Rogers. “This scholarship program helps open doors for emerging designers and strengthens the inclusive and equitable future our industry needs.”
Applicants must be accepted or enrolled full time at an accredited four- or five-year college or university, in a program recognized by NAAB, LAAB, ABET, CIDA or NASAD, and pursuing majors such as architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture or design, architectural engineering, structural engineering, building science and civil, electrical or mechanical engineering.
Details
April 9, 2026
LPA Design Studios
Name: Zac Petit
Email: zpetit@lpadesignstudios.com