The Illinois School of Architecture is pleased to announce the new Ralph E. Johnson Professorship in Design. Alumnus Ralph Johnson (BSAS ’71) established this endowed professorship to support the school in attracting and retaining the most brilliant scholars in the field of architectural education.

Joe and Annette believe that the greatest gift you can give someone is the opportunity to pursue higher education.

Alumnus and longtime friend and donor of the department Jim Martin hopes the scholarship will benefit students who have a strong interest and passion for the field of landscape design.

Susan and Michael Haney recognize the exceptional value of experiences that only the performing arts and cultural centers can provide. Since the Haneys made their very first gift to Krannert Center in 2010, they’ve sponsored close to 40 performances.

The With Illinois campaign generated significant increases in giving across the college that will provide support to our faculty, staff, and students. The College of Fine and Applied Arts is incredibly grateful for the contributions of our passionate supporters.

Nick Rudd’s contributions and influence over the Champaign-Urbana music community is invaluable. That impact and legacy continue through the Nick Rudd Music Fund.

The RATIO Design Prize was established through the generosity of Architecture alumnus William (Bill) Browne, Jr., FAIA (BS ’77). Browne is the chief executive officer and founding principal architect for RATIO Architects LLC headquartered in Indianapolis, IN.

Rita Bass returned to the School of Art and Design at the University of Illinois more than 50 years after initially beginning her education. Now she’s paving the way for other non-traditional students with the establishment of a new scholarship.

Drew and Jen Awsumb believe that a person’s career aspirations should not be stymied by race or socioeconomic status, and so they took action to help break down these barriers.

Howard Loveless is hopeful that with his gift, the camaraderie and musical experiences that VMGC provides will continue well into the future.

Reflecting on his gift, Doug Houston shared, “People at the University of Illinois were helpful to me all my life. I wanted to help others too.”

The roots of Japan House go back to 1964, when Shozo Sato, then artist-in-residence at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts and now professor emeritus of the School of Art and Design, began a series of courses focusing on the art and culture of Japan. Eventually, he renovated an old Victorian house to teach classes.

Zishen Ye wanted to give back and provide current and future students in Planning at Illinois with the same opportunities he was able to take advantage of.

“I view Erlanger House as a tremendous resource for the School of Architecture and the University as a whole. And it’s a legacy of an individual that was a great influence on me while I was going through school.” – Bill Tucker (BS Arch ’78, M.Arch ’81)
