Wentworth Awarded Inaugural National Design Studio Grant

Wentworth's Architecture Studio

Wentworth Institute of Technology has been selected as an inaugural recipient of the Envision Resilience National Design Studio Grant, a new funding initiative designed to support design studios that explore adaptive solutions to climate change.

Wentworth is one of only eight universities across the country chosen for this honor, joining a cohort that includes Yale University, the University of Washington, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. This marks the first time Envision Resilience has expanded its programming nationally, having previously focused its efforts on communities in the Northeast.

The grant was created to foster the next generation of design leaders by advancing collective practices in planning, architecture, and landscape architecture. Under the leadership of design faculty, the funded studios will work to reimagine climate challenges in rural, urban, and mid-size communities.

"Across the country, cities and towns are preparing for a warmer world," said Wendy Schmidt, founder of Envision Resilience. "The Envision Resilience National Design Studio Grant will not only support and expand these efforts, but it will also weave together a wider community that is building a more resilient and hopeful future, coast to coast."

The selection process was highly competitive, with applicants from 13 states submitting proposals. The program encourages multidisciplinary student teams-including architects, planners, environmental scientists, and artists-to propose creative solutions for the impacts of climate change.

"We were overwhelmed by the response to our call for grant proposals," said Claire Martin, executive director of Envision Resilience. "We are confident in both the student learning outcomes and the community impact of the selected award recipients."

The other institutions receiving the grant alongside Wentworth include Mississippi State University, the University of Arizona, the University of Houston, and the University of Texas at Arlington.

About Envision Resilience

Envision Resilience works to advance innovative planning and design in the face of climate change through student and community partnerships. Originally developed by Remain, the organization is part of the philanthropic initiatives funded by Eric and Wendy Schmidt to work toward a healthy, resilient, and secure world.