2025 John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship Award
The John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship Fund was created to support African American interior design and architecture students while promoting diversity and access in education. This scholarship was established by the late John J. Nelson Sr. in partnership with the IIDA Foundation in 2019. Nelson was a known champion of design education, diversity, and unfettered access to education.
For questions on this award, email foundation@iida.org.
Important Dates |
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| Submissions Open | Tuesday, August 5, 2025 |
| Submissions Close | Friday, October 3, 2025 |
Submission Details: Applicants are asked to complete a video submission, submit (1) one letter of recommendation, and upload valid proof of your degree program enrollment.
Video Requirements: Please submit a 3-to-5-minute video that answers the following three prompts:
- Articulate how the power of design has already impacted your life
- Share your motivation for pursuing a career in interior design or architecture
- Share how you will proactively leverage your career in design to positively impact your future clients and community
Technical Video Element Requirements:
- Your video may be styled in “essay” format—where you are responding to the prompt questions (listed above) directly to the camera
- Must incorporate original drawings and sketches
- If you have a portfolio, it is highly recommended to incorporate your project work
View the 2024 John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship recipient's videos here
Additional application requirements:
- (1) one letter of recommendation from your Program Chair, Dean or Instructor (1 page max.)
- Valid copy of your current student ID, in JPEG or PDF format to validate your undergraduate status
*Note: If you have previously applied for this scholarship, you will need to create and submit a new video application. If you re-submit your video from a previous year, you will be disqualified.