Category: Blog

In a recent conversation with Executive Director Lynda Colucci, Sabah Naji shared a journey defined by resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to education and community leadership. Sabah and her family immigrated to the United States from Nairobi, Kenya in 2006 when she was just four years old, fleeing civil unrest in their home country. Through that experience, she learned early that education was more than an opportunity – it was a pathway to stability, growth, and creating a better future.

Sabah’s academic journey has evolved in inspiring ways. Initially guided toward Human Services through what she described as a “system of luck” during high school, she earned an Associate’s Degree in Human Services while also studying Mechatronics. When the COVID-19 pandemic shifted both educational and career landscapes, Sabah redirected her focus fully toward technology, mechanical systems, and engineering. She recently completed her Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology and will begin her Master’s program this fall at SUNY Polytechnic Institute in New York.

What makes Sabah’s story especially compelling is how she combines technical excellence with a passion for people and service. She credits her Human Services background with strengthening her communication skills, volunteer work, and ability to lead initiatives within her community and on campus. During her undergraduate studies, Sabah served as President of SUNY Poly’s Women in Engineering Club, where she led technical programming, outreach workshops, and mentorship opportunities for fellow students. Her leadership, perseverance, and commitment to empowering others embody the values of the a/e ProNet Engineering Scholarship and the future of the engineering profession.

Each year, a/e ProNet proudly supports the next generation of architects and engineers through its scholarship programs, recognizing students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, creativity, leadership, and a passion for shaping the built environment. As a network of specialist insurance brokers serving the architecture and engineering industry, a/e ProNet remains deeply committed to advancing professionalism, risk management education, and the future of design practice through mentorship and scholarship opportunities.

Congratulations to both of our Scholarship Recipients. Follow us while we follow them for the 2026–27 school term. In a conversation with Executive Director Lynda Colucci, both students shared the unique journeys that led them toward architecture, their professional aspirations, and the experiences already shaping their futures in the profession.

Ingram Lucier

Tulane University

Ingram Lucier’s path toward architecture began in a much different discipline: mathematics. Originally pursuing a degree with the intention of becoming an actuary, Ingram realized that while he loved analytical thinking and problem solving, he was missing the creative component that would fully challenge and inspire him. Seeking to broaden his education, he enrolled in a course exploring “What Architecture Means To Society,” and quickly discovered a passion for architecture’s ability to solve complex problems while shaping communities and preserving history.

After earning his undergraduate degree in Risk Management from the University of Wisconsin, Ingram is now pursuing his Master of Architecture at Tulane University in New Orleans. His professional passion centers on the restoration and preservation of historic buildings. He is particularly drawn to the puzzle-like nature of adaptive reuse projects—working through historical unknowns, structural complexities, and the evolving realities of climate change while honoring the original integrity of older structures. This summer, Ingram will continue building hands-on experience through an internship with a Chicago architectural firm specializing in restoration and preservation projects involving historic buildings throughout the city.

Lily Wang

Washington University in St. Louis / University of Texas at Austin

Growing up in both Las Vegas and Lubbock, Texas, Lily Wang developed an early passion for art and creativity. Over time, that passion evolved into a fascination with architecture and its ability to transform communities. While living in Lubbock, Lily witnessed former industrial buildings, factories, and warehouses being reimagined into vibrant cultural and arts centers—spaces that revitalized neighborhoods and improved quality of life for residents. Seeing architecture create meaningful change inspired her desire to pursue a career focused on improving the environments where people live, work, and connect.

Lily is currently completing her Bachelor’s degree at Washington University in St. Louis and will begin her Master of Architecture studies next fall at the University of Texas at Austin. This summer, she will be interning with an international architectural firm in Kansas City, where she looks forward to gaining professional experience while continuing to explore the relationship between thoughtful design, urban revitalization, and community impact.

At a/e ProNet, we believe the future of architecture and engineering depends on supporting talented students like Ingram and Lily—individuals who combine technical skill with vision, curiosity, and a commitment to improving the world around them. We are honored to recognize their accomplishments and look forward to following their journeys throughout the 2026–2027 academic year and beyond.

At a/e ProNet, we are continually inspired by the growth of our scholarship recipients. This season, Rosalyn Becicka, a fourth-year architecture student at Iowa State University and 2025–2026 David W. Lakamp Architect Scholar, reflects on what she learned at two national events: the CREW International Conference in Austin, Texas, and the IIBEC Building Enclosure Research Symposium in St. Louis, Missouri. ~ Lynda Colucci

Learning, Leading, and Connecting

A Reflection from Rosalyn Becicka, 2025–2026 David W. Lakamp Architect Scholarship Recipient

By Rosalyn Becicka

Hello, I’m Rosalyn. I study architecture because I believe design strengthens community. With support from a/e ProNet, I attended two conferences that expanded my skills and confidence.

CREW Conference – Austin, Texas

Walking into a ballroom of women in commercial real estate was energizing. I met scholars from across the country and was welcomed by the Iowa CREW chapter, which helped me feel grounded from the start.

Leadership and negotiation shaped day two. Cheryl Wright’s motto “Plan your work and work your plan” reminded me that discipline supports every goal. A negotiation session reinforced that preparation allows you to recognize your value.

The final day focused on balance and purpose. Speakers encouraged us to integrate rather than perfect, and a former Prime Minister of New Zealand demonstrated how empathy strengthens leadership. I left Austin ready to approach challenges with clarity.

IIBEC Building Enclosure Research Symposium – St. Louis, Missouri

In St. Louis, I explored the science behind building performance with architects, engineers, and researchers. Guided by a mentor, I attended sessions on forensics, retrofit design, and enclosure systems.

A standout presentation by Raymond Desmarar showed how energy upgrades must remain accessible for the people who use them. Another session highlighted how components like flashing and gutter guards prevent expensive water damage. These details reminded me that architecture relies on precision as much as big ideas.

The professionals I met shared advice generously, reinforcing that mentorship is essential to our field.

Building a Network and a Future

Both conferences revealed that architecture grows through community. What felt intimidating became clarifying. I returned to Iowa with knowledge, connections, and a deeper belief that design is ultimately about people.

I am grateful to a/e ProNet for investing in students and encouraging us to lead long before graduation.

Each year, the a/e ProNet David W. Lakamp Architect Scholarship honors architecture students who demonstrate not only exceptional academic and design capabilities, but also the foresight and leadership qualities that will shape the future of the profession. For the 2025–2026 academic year, we are proud to recognize two remarkable individuals  —Anna Turco and Rosalyn Becicka —whose work and character exemplify the spirit of this prestigious award. From Clemson to Iowa State, these students are already leaving their mark on the architectural world through a blend of community-minded vision, innovative thinking, and a shared belief in the power of people-first design.

Anna Turco

Clemson University

Anna  Turco, one of the two recipients of the 2025–2026 David W. Lakamp Architect Scholarship, Anna Turco brings a grounded yet visionary perspective to architecture rooted in community and sustainability. Now pursuing her Master of Architecture at Clemson University, Anna graduated with top honors from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she also earned certificates in Design Strategy and Environmental Studies. Her academic path is matched by rich hands-on experience at firms like Liollio Architects and Eppstein Uhen Architects, where she has contributed to everything from schematic design to construction documentation. At Clemson, she also supports the graduate co-chair as a research and administrative assistant, further demonstrating her professionalism and dedication.

Anna’s winning case study emphasized a holistic, mission-driven approach to risk management in architectural practice. She argued that the foundation of any resilient firm is its people—those who share a unified vision, stay curious, and collaborate with integrity. Her reflection on the evolving construction landscape, cybersecurity threats, and alternative delivery methods revealed a strategic thinker who values adaptability and lifelong learning. Anna’s passion lies in community-centered architecture—parks, civic buildings, and educational spaces that provide lasting social value. Her professors praise her as a leader with creativity, empathy, and initiative, and the scholarship committee recognized her not just as a talented designer, but as a future steward of the built environment.

Rosalyn Becicka

Iowa State University

Joining Anna Turco as a 2025–2026 David W. Lakamp Architect Scholarship recipient, Rosalyn Becicka is a standout fourth-year architecture student at Iowa State University. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA and ranking in the top 2% of her class, Rosalyn’s dedication to both craft and community is evident in everything she does. From winning national design competitions like ASC Design Build and PCI Project Precast to leading client meetings during her internship at BCDM Architects, she blends academic excellence with practical, real-world engagement. As a teaching assistant and peer mentor, she uplifts others even while managing multiple jobs to fund her education.

In her scholarship case study, Rosalyn addressed modern architectural risk management with clarity and insight, naming “hiring talented individuals” as the most critical concern in today’s evolving professional landscape. Her essay revealed a nuanced understanding of how firm culture, staff alignment, and ongoing education are vital to success in areas ranging from cybersecurity to client relations. This human-centered approach deeply resonated with the scholarship jury. Rosalyn’s long-term vision includes designing public-facing institutions like museums and libraries—spaces that inform, uplift, and serve their communities. Her blend of humility, leadership, and purpose-driven design positions her as a future leader in the field.

Avery Michaels

Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) · Engineering Scholarship Recipient

Avery Michaels, a rising senior in architectural engineering at MSOE, is the 2025–2026 recipient of the a/e ProNet ACEC Engineering Scholarship. Raised on a dairy farm in Kewaskum, Wisconsin, Avery credits her work ethic and ambition to her family’s agricultural roots. Now carrying a 3.89 GPA, she serves as Vice President of MSOE’s Architectural Engineering Institute chapter, and has held internships at Riley Construction, Gremmer and Associates, and now Burns & McDonnell in Colorado. She is known for her leadership, her drive to learn, and her passion for sustainable, impactful structural design.

In her case study, Avery emphasized that hiring the right people is the most critical risk for an engineering firm. She argued that strong teams are essential to navigating all other challenges—from cyber threats to project delivery models—because no process or technology can replace the power of a qualified, ethical, and collaborative team. Her long-term vision includes advancing the field of structural engineering through sustainability, materials innovation, and team-based problem-solving. Avery’s story is one of self-made success, fueled by curiosity and determination, and this scholarship helps ensure she continues to thrive.

This summer, Avery Michaels is interning where she’s gaining hands-on experience in structural engineering with a focus on power distribution systems—designing the structures that support electrical poles and foundations. Eager to learn across disciplines, she’s also exploring civil engineering tasks and applying knowledge from a previous internship. Avery is particularly excited about the firm’s sustainability initiatives, including converting methane from factory farms into renewable energy, which aligns with her passion for sustainable design and energy-efficient building systems.

I recently got together with Alexandra over the holidays to see how her career is progressing, and to gain any insight she might want to share with future scholarship recipients. We had a great conversation. Check out the insights below. ~ Lynda

A New Perspective on the Workplace

Returning to the office after a significant period of remote work can be both exciting and daunting. Alexandra, who previously worked at Gensler before attending graduate school, shared her observations on how the workplace has transformed since the COVID pandemic. She noted that the energy in the office remains vibrant and inspiring, though some procedures have changed. Overall, she feels empowered to absorb knowledge and contribute to innovative projects with her colleagues.

At Gensler – Designing for People

After obtaining her Master of Architecture, Alexandra joined Gensler in New York City as a Job Captain. At Gensler she is involved in user-centered design. She emphasized the firm’s mission to prioritize people in the design process, ensuring that clients’ interactions with spaces are both comfortable and meaningful. With the average person spending approximately 75% of their time indoors, the significance of thoughtful design cannot be overstated. Alexandra’s academic background in this area has equipped her with the tools to contribute meaningfully to the firm’s projects. She understands that designing environments goes well beyond aesthetics; they involve creating spaces that enhance well-being and foster positive experiences. This approach is especially relevant in today’s world, where mental health and comfort in our surroundings are more important than ever.

Educational Opportunities and Financial Support

As the conversation progressed, the topic of scholarships and educational opportunities arose. Alexandra shared her positive experience applying for a scholarship with a/e Pro Net which offered over $5,000 to support her graduate studies. She found the scholarship application process easy to apply for, and helpful in allowing her not to worry about finances, allowing her to focus more on her studies. She encourages other architectural students to apply for this scholarship as an alternative to having to apply for loans.

The importance of scholarships extends well beyond financial relief; they also serve to encourage aspiring architects and designers to pursue their passions. Alexandra highlighted the need for professors and colleges to actively promote scholarship information through newsletters and other channels. Alexandra offered to help us with outreach for our scholarship program at her alma mater, University of Oregon, and we look forward to doing so.

As the design process began, each group was given a precedent as a starting point to form and aesthetic. As the 12 groups merged progressively through the semester, the many pavilion designs became 3. My group’s pavilion was made of curving pieces of rebar, and enclosed in shrink wrap.

Video credit: Lawrence Technological University
Photo credit: Steve Kroodsma

At my internship with AE Design, I’m undertaking a fascinating blend of power and lighting design. One of the projects that excites me the most is the new Boulder Western City Campus, which includes a city hall building, a parking garage, and an exterior plaza in Boulder, Colorado. Being part of this team for over a year (Kelsi if third from the left), I’ve watched the project evolve and take shape. This hands-on experience has been invaluable in understanding the nuances of designing spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.   

Recently, I had the opportunity to contribute to a physical mock-up at the Northglenn City Hall. This involved assembling various lighting solutions within an atrium to determine the most effective way to illuminate a prominent local art sculpture. Such practical experiences have heightened my appreciation for the meticulous planning required to balance form and function in public spaces.

A significant milestone in my professional development has been earning my WELL Accredited Professional certification through the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). This certification has deepened my insight into how buildings influence human health and wellness, equipping me with the expertise to contribute to designs that foster healthier environments.

Beyond my professional endeavors, Colorado’s stunning landscapes offer a perfect backdrop for weekend camping trips with my dog, Gracie. Whether exploring urban areas or venturing into the mountains, these outdoor adventures provide a refreshing balance to my architectural pursuits. They remind me of the importance of integrating natural elements into our built environments, a consideration that is becoming increasingly relevant in architectural design and its associated risk management.

We are pleased to introduce Kelsi Weilage, the recipient of the 2024-25 A/E ProNet ACEC Scholarship. Kelsi is set to begin her Master’s program at the University of Nebraska – Omaha this fall.

A Nebraska native from a small rural community of just 400 residents, Kelsi grew up with a passion for math and science, although she was initially unsure where her interests would lead her. She completed her undergraduate degree in Architectural Engineering with a focus on Electrical Engineering.

Kelsi discovered her enthusiasm for ‘creative engineering’ and is now dedicated to the fields of Creative Lighting Design and Power Design. This summer, she is gaining hands-on experience in these areas at an AE Design firm in Colorado.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Kelsi and wish her continued success in her academic and professional endeavors. We look forward to following her career progress closely. Stay tuned for updates on her remarkable journey.