AIA Alaska’s Committee of Fellows (AIA AK COF) is inviting nominations from AIA Alaska architect members for the Jonathan P. Kumin Award for Excellence in Architectural Practice. This award is one of our chapter’s highest professional honors. The architectural practice of Jon Kumin, AIA epitomized the best in architectural practice and professionalism. His influence has been felt through his work in design – his buildings can be seen and appreciated throughout Alaska, from Ketchikan to Barrow, Unalaska to Anchorage.

Professional leadership distinguished Jon as well. He was an excellent role model for all Alaskan practitioners. For many years he was instrumental in helping to foster the next generation of aspiring Alaskan architects through his involvement with AIA Alaska’s Northern Design Course and through numerous positions of leadership within AIA Alaska.

Jon was also active in community organizations that sought to promote economic and cultural activity in Alaska.

Jon’s work and service contributions These contributions: Jon’s work and service, have exemplified that which we aspire to see in Alaska’s architects, and we know that this award will come to be known as one of our chapter’s highest professional honors.

The prestige of the Kumin Award is a bestowed honor, and evaluation is rigorous.

This award was first established in November 2005 by the AIA Alaska Committee of Fellows.

Eligibility for nomination and award.

1.     Architects that have made significant contributions to the profession and society, and who exemplify architectural excellence may be considered for this award.

2.     Review of nominees is conducted by a jury whose members are drawn from the Board of Directors and the AIA Alaska Committee of Fellows.  Nominations are sought annually; however the jury is under no obligation to make an annual selection.

3.     Architects that have been in good standing for at least ten years and have completed 10 cumulative years as an Architect prior to the call for nominations deadline will be considered.

Criteria

Jon Kumin was recognized throughout Alaska as a respected architect and an exemplary citizen. In recognition, the Kumin Award will be  granted to architects who have made notable volunteer contributions in public service in social, economic, and/or arts and culture; or in government service through leadership in the development of civic improvements and public projects, including such elements as conservation, beautification, land-use regulation, transportation, or the removal of blighted areas, or who have clearly raised the standards of professional service in these areas.

The above represents the threshold criterion to be considered for the Kumin Award.  In addition, nominees shall be evaluated on two or more of the following criteria:

1. Architects who have produced distinguished bodies of work through design, urban design, or preservation. This may be accomplished through individual or organizational effort. Works submitted may be of any size for any client, of any scope and reflecting any type of architectural design service.

2. Architects who have made notable contributions through their work in education, mentoring, research, literature, the practice of architecture and positive role modelling.

3. Architects who have actively, efficiently, and cooperatively led the Institute including the Alaska Chapter or Sections, or a related professional organization over a sustained period of time and have gained widespread recognition for the results of their work.

4. Architects who have made notable contributions to the public through alternative careers or volunteer work with organizations not directly connected to the built environment; and have been active in organizations that sought to advance the social, economic, and cultural circumstances of Alaska’s communities.

Submission Requirements

1. Nominators shall provide a written narrative not to exceed 500 words in support of their nominee. Should a nominee be selected, a biographical narrative of approximately 250 words shall be prepared by the COF for presentation to the AIA Alaska membership at the annual chapter conference.

2. A digital format (PDF) portrait photograph of the nominee shall be provided. 

3. Nominations are due to AIA Alaska via email by COB August 1, 2025.

Questions shall be submitted via email to AIA Alaska, Angie Monteleone by COB June 24, 2025.