We believe diversity in design isn't just a nice-to-have or an add on; it is essential for innovation and impact demonstrating a commitment to equity, inclusion, and inherent socially responsible design excellence.


Applications are OPEN!

Application Deadline: December 6th, 2024 by 11:59pm (EST)

Award(s)

(1) $500 scholarship will be awarded.

ESSAY PROMPT

Transformative Growth: "Reflect on a past project or achievement where you demonstrated exceptional skill. What were the key factors that contributed to your success? If given access to new software, training, or tools, how would you integrate them into your current practice to push the boundaries of your capabilities and achieve greater outcomes?"

Minimum 250 words with a maximum of 1000 words.

CONNECT is rewarded to an eligible candidate who demonstrates (an) extraordinary skill(s) and would greatly benefit from access to a new resource (tools, software, training, etc.) to take their design skills to the next level.

Award(s)

(1) $1,000 scholarship will be awarded.

CELEBRATE is rewarded to an eligible candidate who takes significant actions to contribute to their neighborhood, campus, and community-at-large through their commitment to service, generosity, leadership, and support for individuals/organization(s).

ESSAY PROMPT

Transforming Adversity into Opportunity: "Describe an instance where your talent shone through despite facing significant financial or resource-related obstacles. How did these challenges influence your approach and outcomes? Discuss how overcoming these obstacles has prepared you to make the most of future opportunities with the right support."

Minimum 250 words with a maximum of 1000 words.

Award(s)

(1) $500 scholarship will be awarded.

ESSAY PROMPT

Innovative Solutions for Community Needs: "Describe a unique or innovative solution you developed to address a specific need in your neighborhood or community. How did you identify the problem, and what steps did you take to implement your solution? Reflect on how your creativity and commitment to service played a role in the project's success."

Minimum 250 words with a maximum of 1000 words.

CHAMPION is rewarded to an eligible candidate whom have shown the ability to overcome adversity in their lives, despite any means or barriers presented.


Eligibility

To be eligible, applicants must be part of an under-represented community, be enrolled at a college or university within the state of Ohio during the academic term in which scholarships are awarded (Spring 2025), and already admitted into their major of architecture, engineering, construction, and/or a similar design field of study. Preference will be given to those active, and in good standing with, their local NOMA or NOMAs chapter. Other considerations include:

  • A cumulative grade point average of at least 2.7 on a 4.0 scale.

  • Experience with volunteering and other extracurricular activities.

All components of the application must be completed and received by the deadline Friday, December 6th 2024 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants may apply to any, or all, available scholarships that they are eligible for, and no more than one essay per scholarship may be submitted.


Application Requirements

Contact Info / Background Form

Essay(s) for each scholarship

CV / Single Page Resume

Upload At least (1) Letter of Recommendation

Upload a current copy of College/University Transcript

Applicants for the scholarships must complete the following no later than 11:59 PM EST on December 6th, 2024

For any questions regarding this scholarship application(s), please contact NOMAColumbus at vicepresident@nomacolumbus.org. We’re here to help! Please reach out if you need clarification on eligibility requirements, application procedures, or any other inquiries.

FAQs

  • Yes, students must be enrolled in a Ohio accredited and/or Design related Spring 2025 program(s):

    • Architecture

    • Landscape Architecture

    • Interior Design

    • Engineering

    • City & Regional Planning

    • Construction Management/Systems

    • And/or a similar field of design study. 


  • Yes! As long as you meet the eligibility requirements for the programs you are interested in, you can apply for as many scholarships as you would like.

  • Recipients are selected by a jury of committee members based on a comprehensive evaluation process that considers several key factors, including:

    1. NOMAs Member: Students in good standing with their university NOMAs Chapter.

    2. Academic Achievement: GPA and transcripts will be reviewed to assess the applicant's academic performance.

    3. Essay Prompt: Applicants are required to submit their essay prompt response to the specific scholarship they are applying too.

    4. Letters of Recommendation: Strong endorsements from teachers, mentors, or community leaders will be taken into account to gauge the applicant's character and potential.

    5. Demonstrated Need: Financial need is considered, ensuring support goes to those who may benefit most.

    6. Community Involvement: Involvement in community service or extracurricular activities is evaluated, reflecting the applicant’s commitment to making a positive impact.

    This holistic approach ensures that we recognize not only academic excellence but also resilience, character, and the potential for future contributions to the community.

  • Online Applications only. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our team for assistance!

  • Scholarship winning recipients will be notified by December 20th, 2024

    All applicants will however, receive notice via email whether they have received the award or not. If the jury process takes longer than usual, all applicants will be notified.

  • Yes! We encourage past recipients to apply for other scholarships opportunities.

Scholarship Sponsors

We greatly appreciate our Scholarship Sponsor(s). Donations to this fund can be made online here.