John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship Fund

The John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship Award 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.

Applicants are asked to complete a video submission, submit (1) one letter of recommendation, and upload valid proof of your degree program enrollment.

This fund was created to benefit and further the study of interior design and architecture by students of African American descent.

Video Requirements: 

Please submit a 3-to-5-minute video that answers the following three prompts:

1. Articulate how the power of design has already impacted your life
2. Share your motivation for pursuing a career in interior design or architecture
3. Share how you will proactively leverage your career in design to positively impact your future clients and community

Technical Video Element Requirements:

• Video may be styled in essay format, where you are responding to the prompt questions (above) directly to the camera
• Video must incorporate original drawings and sketches
• If you have a portfolio, it is highly recommended to incorporate your project work

View the 2025 John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship recipient's videos online.

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

Eligibility

This scholarship award is open to undergraduate students of African American descent who are currently enrolled in a U.S. not-for-profit CIDA- or NASAD-accredited interior design or NAAB-accredited architecture program. IIDA membership is not required to apply.

Guidelines

Applicants are asked to complete a video submission, and to submit a letter of recommendation and proof of enrollment.

Additional Materials

In addition to the video, please provide a letter of recommendation from your Program Chair, Dean, or Instructor (max 1 page). To validate your undergraduate status, please provide a copy of your current student ID, in JPEG or PDF format.

Judging

The IIDA Foundation Board of Trustees will review the videos and select the scholarship recipients. If any of the above documentation is not included, your application will not be reviewed. Any inclusions other than those requested will be removed from your application.

For Educators

We encourage you to let your eligible students know about the John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship and that they should apply. You may download a printable one-sheet oneline.

Award

Up to two recipients will be eligible to receive up to $10,000 each in scholarship funds and round-trip airfare and hotel stay in Chicago where they will be recognized in-person at the IIDA Annual Meeting, the Sunday prior to Chicago Design Week. Winners will receive official digital assets, a mention on IIDA’s website, and recognition on IIDA social media channels.