The Leon Bridges Legacy ARE Scholarship

The Leon Bridges Legacy Scholarship honors the legacy of Maryland's first licensed African American architect by supporting aspiring architects on their path to licensure and advancing a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive profession.

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ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP

The Leon Bridges Legacy Scholarship for ARE Candidates is an initiative of the Baltimore Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (Bmore NOMA) and AIA Baltimore, established in honor of the extraordinary life, leadership, and legacy of Leon Bridges, FAIA, NOMA. As the first licensed African American architect in the State of Maryland, a past president of NOMA, educator, mentor, and champion for equity in the profession, Leon Bridges dedicated his career to creating opportunities for future generations of architects. His impact extended far beyond design excellence—he devoted his life to advancing diversity, expanding access to the profession, and supporting emerging Black architects and designers.

Created as a memorial scholarship in his honor, this program continues Bridges' lifelong commitment to mentorship, professional development, and the advancement of underrepresented voices in architecture. Through this scholarship, Bmore NOMA seeks to carry forward his vision of a more equitable profession by investing directly in those pursuing architectural licensure.

Licensure remains a critical milestone in the architecture profession, yet financial barriers—especially the cost of the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) and related resources—often create disproportionate challenges for marginalized professionals. This scholarship is not just financial support; it is a continuation of Leon Bridges' enduring legacy and a vote of confidence in your potential to shape the built environment with integrity, purpose, and a commitment to community.

If you're working toward licensure, committed to professional growth, and ready to make an impact, we encourage you to apply.

SCHOLARSHIP INFO

AWARD AMOUNT

Up to $800 to two lucky recipient (awards may cover individual exam divisions, test prep materials, or NCARB-related fees)

ELIGIBILITY cRITERIA

Applicants must:

Be a current member of Bmore NOMA or AIA Baltimore
Documentation showing you are actively working toward licensure, including but not limited to:
Receipts of study materials
NCARB record
Receipt of seat test
Have either begun taking the ARE exams or are preparing to begin within 6 months
Be eligible to take the ARE exam according to the requirements of the State of Maryland (or equivalent jurisdiction)

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Submit the following materials by the Deadline:

Completed Application Form (see below)
1 Page Personal Statement
Proof of actively working towards licensure with legal name on documentation
ARE Progress Report (if applicable)
Resume

DEADLINE

Tuesday, August 18th, 2026 at Midnight

Review Process

Applications will be reviewed by individuals designated by the Bmore NOMA Board of Directors. Selections will be based on commitment to licensure, financial need, and potential to contribute to the architecture profession and Baltimore’s design community.