John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship Fund
Scholarship Sponsored by IIDA Foundation
Overview
Description: The John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship supports African American students pursuing interior design and architecture, promoting diversity and access in education. The scholarship was established in partnership with the IIDA Foundation to invest in the next generation of design professionals. It funds undergraduate study and provides in-person recognition at the IIDA Annual Meeting. The program emphasizes professional development and community impact through design.
- Supports African American undergraduate students in design and architecture
- Administered by the IIDA Foundation
- Focuses on diversity, access, and professional recognition
Eligibility
Eligibility: Applicants must be undergraduate students of African American descent enrolled in a U.S. not-for-profit accredited program: CIDA- or NASAD-accredited interior design programs or NAAB-accredited architecture programs. IIDA membership is not required to apply. Applicants must provide proof of current enrollment to validate undergraduate status. Specific program accreditation is required for application consideration.
- Undergraduate status required
- Must be enrolled in an accredited U.S. program (CIDA, NASAD, or NAAB)
- IIDA membership not required
Application Materials
Required Materials: Applicants must submit a 3–5 minute video, one letter of recommendation (one page max) from a Program Chair, Dean, or Instructor, and a valid copy of current student ID in JPEG or PDF format. All materials must be included for the application to be reviewed. Additional or unsolicited materials will be removed from the application. Follow file format and length requirements closely to ensure review.
- Video (3–5 minutes)
- One recommendation letter (max 1 page)
- Student ID copy (JPEG or PDF)
Video Requirements
Video Prompts: Submit a 3–5 minute video addressing three prompts about how design has impacted your life, your motivation for pursuing design or architecture, and how you will leverage your career to benefit clients and community. The video may be presented in essay format directly to camera, and must incorporate original drawings and sketches. Including portfolio project work is highly recommended but not required. Ensure technical quality is sufficient to convey your message clearly.
- Articulate how the power of design has already impacted your life
- Share your motivation for pursuing a career in interior design or architecture
- Describe how you will proactively leverage your career in design to positively impact future clients and your community
- 3–5 minute length requirement
- Must include original drawings or sketches
- Portfolio work recommended for inclusion
Judging
Selection Process: The IIDA Foundation Board of Trustees reviews video submissions and selected application materials to determine recipients. Incomplete applications or those missing required documentation will not be reviewed. Any materials beyond those requested will be removed prior to review. Decisions are based on the submitted video content and required supporting documents.
- Board of Trustees selects recipients
- Incomplete applications are disqualified from review
- Only requested materials are considered
Award
Award Value: Up to two recipients may receive up to $10,000 each in scholarship funds. Winners also receive round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations to attend the IIDA Annual Meeting in Chicago for in-person recognition, along with official digital assets and recognition on IIDA channels. The award combines financial support with professional visibility and networking opportunities. Details about travel and recognition are included with the award notification.
- Up to $10,000 per recipient
- Travel and hotel provided for in-person recognition
- Digital assets and public recognition via IIDA
For Educators
Outreach: Educators are encouraged to inform eligible students about the scholarship and support their application process. Providing guidance on video content, sketches, and recommendation letter sources can improve applicant readiness. A printable one-sheet is available for distribution to interested students. Schools can help ensure applicants meet accreditation and documentation requirements.
- Encourage eligible students to apply
- Share guidance on required materials and formats
- Printable outreach materials are available for educators
History of the Award
History of the Award: The scholarship was established in 2019 by the late John J. Nelson Sr. in partnership with the IIDA Foundation. John J. Nelson Sr. was a proponent of design education, diversity, and equitable access to educational opportunities. The fund was created to advance the study of interior design and architecture among students of African American descent. Its creation reflects a legacy of supporting underrepresented talent in the design professions.
- Founded in 2019 by John J. Nelson Sr.
- Created in partnership with the IIDA Foundation
- Established to advance diversity and access in design education