Toledo City Council Recognizes HSDC Winners

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, Toledo City Council welcomed student winners of the 75th Annual AIA Toledo High School Design Competition (HSDC) to One Government Center for a resolution-in-attendance celebrating their achievement.

The lobby was transformed into a pop-up design showcase as students displayed their projects and connected with architects, supporters, and community leaders.

AIA Toledo is deeply grateful to Council Member Nick Komives and his staff for hosting this meaningful moment of civic recognition and encouraging the next generation of design thinkers. There’s a bright future in design and architecture for these students, and Northwest Ohio is rich with support for these emerging professionals.

We also thank the many instructors, sponsors, and AIA members who have sustained this program over the decades through mentorship and stewardship. Together, we continue to celebrate the value of architecture and design education across NW Ohio.

AIA Toledo members, supporters, and student participants with Toledo City Council Members

Toledo City Council unanimously adopted a resolution to honor AIA Toledo and the participating students.

ABOUT HSDC

As the longest running program of its kind in the country, the High School Design Competition has a rich legacy. The idea was born in 1949 when a drafting teacher at Macomber Technical High School approached architects at Bellman, Gillett and Richards about exposing his students to the workings of the architectural profession. Later that year, the Toledo Chapter of the American Institute of Architects voted to approve the “Toledo High School Architectural Competition”, with initial funding not to exceed $100. The first competition was held in 1950, with 23 students from Waite, DeVilbiss, and Macomber High Schools participating. Their design challenge was a parking lot office and the first-place prize was $10.

Contact us to learn how your school or student can participate.