Register for our Virtual Info Session (Jan. 27) and Portland Workshop (Feb. 19)
Application is open! Apply by Sunday, February 23, 2025, 11:59pm
William Hart Scholarship
$5,000 scholarship for Black, Indigenous, and/or people of color (BIPOC) Master and Bachelor of Architecture students entering their last year at University of Oregon or Portland State University (graduating in 2026).
The William Hart Scholarship was established in 2021 in partnership with Carleton Hart Architecture (CHA). Hart’s resume reflects his passion for community-oriented projects that are sensitive to historically under-represented and marginalized stakeholders, including multiple affordable housing developments and community centers across the Portland Metro Area and SW Washington. Hart stepped into a new role in March 2021 to found Hart Development – a real estate development firm focused on serving the African American community.
To honor Hart’s enduring legacy that lives on in CHA, the firm continues to push for equity in the profession and the communities they serve. The vision for this scholarship is to expand that work, remove barriers to entry into the profession, and support future architects.
This scholarship is also an opportunity for students to engage with CHA. Scholarship recipients will be invited to visit the CHA office and meet staff with the hope of forming an ongoing relationship with the firm. While optional, involvement with the firm is meant to offer support and professional mentorship to recipients of this award.
AFO and CHA encourage Oregon architecture students who identify as Black, Indigenous, and/or a person of color to apply for the William Hart Scholarship. An essay and portfolio of work must represent the candidate’s career goals and desire to make a positive impact on the architecture profession.
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility for 2025 Award
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- Identify as Black, Indigenous, and/or a person of color
- Master of Architecture, Master of Science in Architecture, or Bachelor of Architecture students entering their final year (graduating in 2026), currently enrolled in University of Oregon or Portland State University architecture program
- Demonstrated design ability
- Have specific career goals and desire to make a positive impact on the architecture profession
Application Requirements
Please submit the following through our AFO Scholarship application form:
- 500-word (maximum) essay: What drew you to the field of architecture and how would you like to apply your degree after graduation?
- Design portfolio: Your portfolio is an opportunity to showcase your passions and projects that you are proud of, including work created during and/or outside of school. Portfolio shall feature architecture projects and can feature creative arts, building and community focused projects. Process images and work that expresses design thinking is encouraged.
- PDF file (50 MB maximum)
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Feature three projects (see description above)
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Include images, graphics, and written narrative to explain each project
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10 pages maximum
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Include at least one project completed individually (not a group project)
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If including group projects, describe your role in the project
If you are not able to submit your application electronically, please print and mail it to AFO, PO Box 40230, Portland, OR 97240. We will accept mailed applications postmarked by the deadline.
Selection Criteria
Join AFO at a Scholarship Workshop to learn more about how to prepare a successful application. See more information below.
- Candidate weaves their story and aspirations throughout their entire application
- Candidate demonstrates design ability, passion, and innovation; and shows their thinking behind their design process
- Candidate expresses specific career goals and desire to make a positive impact on the architecture profession
- Candidate shows commitment to equity through design
- Candidate aligns with CHA’s values and hopes for the future of the profession
The criteria for AFO Scholarships includes a consideration for need, although need is not a prerequisite. Undergraduate and graduate students are evaluated based on the merits of their experience. Previous applicants who have not received an award are welcomed and encouraged to reapply.
Award Notification
Applications are evaluated by a committee of AFO and Carleton Hart Architecture representatives. Applicants will be notified of the selection committee’s decision in April.
Scholarship recipients are asked to attend our annual AFO Scholars Reception to receive their awards in the Spring. The event is attended by members of the architecture, engineering, construction, and design community from across the state and celebrates the hard work and accomplishments of the Scholars.
Apply Now
Application Deadline: Sunday, February 23, 2025, 11:59pm
Questions?
Contact:
Candice Agahan
Education Program Manager
candice@af-oregon.org
503-542-3823
Scholarship Workshops & Resources
During our info sessions and workshops we cover eligibility, the application process, and how to prepare a successful application. Attendees will receive tips and feedback on scholarship essays, portfolios/work samples, and more. Info sessions and workshops are free and open to eligible scholarship candidates. Register now and find additional information, below.
Virtual Info Session
Monday, January 27, 5-6pm, Zoom
A chance to learn more about AFO scholarship offerings, the application process, and determine your eligibility to apply.
Portland Workshop
Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7pm, Carleton Hart Architecture, 630 SW 5th Ave #400, Portland, OR 97204
Learn how to prepare a successful application and receive tips and feedback on scholarship essays, portfolios/work samples, and more.
Register for the 2025 Virtual Info Session and Portland Workshop
2024 Virtual Workshop Recording
Additional Resources
Scholar Spotlight
“One of the most important things I’ve learned… is that when designing for different communities, allowing for participation is important… I hope to one day be a positive impact to communities around me, both at a large urban scale and a small scale like the city of Canby, Oregon.”
