The American Institute of Architects (AIA) recently announced the recipients of its 2011 Young Architects Award. These 11 practitioners are young in the profession, if not in age, having been licensed for 10 or fewer years, and were selected by the awards jury in recognition of the exceptional leadership and significant contributions they have made so early in their careers. The awards will be presented in May during an event at the AIA National Convention and Design Expo in New Orleans.

Jack Baumann, AIA, Braun & Steidl Architects, Akron and Columbus, Ohio. The award jury cited Baumann's extensive involvement and dedication to the profession and the institute, calling his efforts in encouraging young people to become architects and helping them thrive in the profession "exceptional."

Sara Beardsley, AIA, Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, Chicago. Focused on the technical integration of sustainability in complex buildings, Beardsley is sought for her expertise in energy performance, which the jury notes is invaluable to the profession both now and in the future.

Gail Peter Borden, AIA, Borden Partnership, Los Angeles. As a teacher, researcher, author, and practicing architect, Borden's strengths lie in his passionate focus on materials and the role of materiality in architecture, identified by the jury as "a unique gift to the profession."

Steven Dwyer, AIA, Hammel, Green and Abrahamson, Minneapolis. Drawing on his belief in the profession as a method for improving the human condition and communities, Dwyer's career has focused on cultural, educational, and nonprofit clients. The jury commends him as "a go-to provider of big design ideas."

Sanford E. Garner, AIA, A2SO4, Indianapolis. Garner's commitment to community service and development, preservation issues, design, and the profession inspired the jury to recognize him as "an incredibly motivated individual who shares his gifts, talents, and expertise with others."

Christopher Herr, AIA, Studio H:T, Denver and Boulder, Colo. As an architect and educator, Herr's focus has been on advancing sustainability and alternative building systems, and promoting the value of research and innovation. The jury noted his "keen skill for passing on his passion and the work ethic required to produce such good design."

Jennifer T. Knudsen, AIA, CO Architects, Los Angeles. A pioneer in BIM-enabled integrated project delivery, Knudsen has improved the quality of collaboration within the industry—work the jury called "crucial and beneficial to the future of architecture."

Kiel Moe, AIA, Northeastern University School of Architecture. Moe integrates his design with research and publishing in his practice, considering them equally critical and mutually beneficial. The far-reaching influence of his work earned the jury's commendation.

Amy Slattery, AIA, BNIM, Kansas City, Mo. Slattery exemplifies design excellence as well as leadership and mentorship within the profession, according to the award jury, and her dedication to diversity and emerging professionals helps ensure the profession's continued relevancy.

Sean Stadler, AIA, WDG Architecture, Washington, D.C., and Dallas. The jury described Stadler's dedication to developing the next generation of architects, in addition to his design practice and industry leadership, as "remarkable and inspiring."

Thomas J. Trenolone, AIA, HDR Architecture, nocturnal:design Lab, and design alliance OMAha, Omaha, Neb. Trenolone has made extensive contributions to the profession through design, research, and teaching. According to the jury, "One of Tom's greatest assets is ... his passion to inspire others to understand what drives us as architects and learn why we do what we do." 

To learn more about each award recipient, click here.