High School Design Competition: Member Opportunities to Support the 77th Year
The AIA Toledo High School Design Competition will celebrate its 77th year in 2027. As one of the longest‑running architecture education programs in the nation, the HSDC introduces students to design thinking, encourages creative problem‑solving, and provides scholarship opportunities to emerging talent.
The HSDC Committee will begin meeting soon to prepare for the upcoming cycle, and we’re inviting AIA Toledo members to support the program in ways that match their time, interests, and availability. Below are four opportunities to get involved—ranging from deeper engagement to quick, high‑impact contributions.
1. Join the HSDC Committee
As the competition approaches its 77th year, the committee is seeking a new member to help support and grow this impactful program. We welcome individuals excited about student engagement and community outreach. Experience or interest in graphics or social media is helpful but not required.
Contact us: hsdc.aiatoledo@gmail.com
2. Become an Advisor
Architectural Advisors meet with students during the 10‑week competition to guide them through the design process. This role provides students with valuable professional insight and helps strengthen the educational impact of the program.
Learn more: Advisor role & responsibilities
3. Share School Contacts
Help us expand participation by connecting the committee with the right person at schools that have not yet participated—guidance counselors, principals, STEM/CAD educators, art teachers, and more. The committee will work with you to establish relationships and reach more students across Northwest Ohio.
Help connect us: View List of Schools
4. Awards Night Venue Partnership
The HSDC Awards Night brings together students, families, educators, advisors, sponsors, and members for a celebration of student achievement. It represents a significant cost within the program budget, and partnership support would make a meaningful difference. If you have connections to venues or organizations that could host or partner on Awards Night, we’d greatly appreciate it.
Contact us: hsdc.aiatoledo@gmail.com
Why Member Support Matters
Every contribution, whether time, connections, or resources, helps strengthen this signature program and expand its impact across our region. Member involvement ensures the competition remains strong year after year and that students are introduced to architecture and design, supporting a growing pipeline into the profession.
2027 HSDC Program Calendar (click to enlarge & print)
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.