On Thursday, May 1, 2025, AIA Bronx proudly hosted the 2025 AIA Bronx Student Empowerment Awards. The event celebrated the incredible talent, hard work, and creativity of architecture students from across the Bronx. This year, six students from six accredited NAAB schools, including Pratt School of Architecture, received recognition for their dedication to transforming the Bronx and creating spaces that serve their communities. Among the six awardees was Brianna Martinez-Burns, B.Arch ’27, from Pratt Institute, who received a financial award and recognition for her exceptional contributions and dedication to the field of architecture.
AIA Bronx President and School of Architecture faculty member Sara Jazayeri opened the evening, sharing the chapter’s inspiring journey from its humble beginnings in 2020 to its current position of expanding educational programs and supporting the future of architecture in the Bronx. “We are here tonight to celebrate the next generation of architects who will shape the future of the Bronx and beyond,” Jazayeri said. “Your passion, creativity, and drive to make the world a better place inspire us all.”
The awards ceremony recognized students for their accomplishments in the Bronx Reimagining Competition, which focuses on repurposing abandoned buildings into functional spaces that benefit local communities. This year’s featured project was the Bronx Courthouse, which is being transformed into a community-centered space for local residents.
The night was filled with inspiring speeches, networking opportunities, and an overall celebration of the community’s commitment to supporting education, mentorship, and sustainability in architecture. As the event wrapped up, students and professionals alike shared their excitement about the future of architecture in the Bronx. This summer, we’re excited to launch the Women in Architecture initiative for our chapter and warmly welcome all students from any borough to volunteer and be part of this empowering movement. AIA Bronx looks forward to continuing its mission to mentor and empower young architects through educational outreach and community-based initiatives.