Master of Architecture Program Announces Recipient of 2018 Walter Harrison Thesis Award

The Master of Architecture Program is pleased to announce that Steven Niele is the winner of the 2018 Walter Harrison Thesis Award. 

The award is given yearly, in honor of University Past-President Walter Harrison, who was instrumental in the establishment and development of the University of Hartford’s Master of Architecture Program.  The award is bestowed upon the Master of Architecture student with the most outstanding Thesis Project.  Projects must be timely in nature, thoroughly thought out, comprehensively developed, graphically stunning, and effectively presented.  Graduating Master of Architecture students who have successfully completed and presented their Thesis projects are eligible.  Only one award is made per academic year.

Steven Niele’s project: ‘Bi-Lingual Architecture’ a Winery in Ala Trentino, Italy.

Master of Architecture Thesis Projects were presented on Monday, April 23, with CETA hosting the event in the Harry Jack Gray Center’s 1877 Club. The work of the second-year graduate students was on display from 12:00 to 1:00pm, followed by individual presentations and reviews.  The event was culminated with a reception in the Rotunda from 6:00 to 8:00pm.

Students participants: Timothy Applebee, Joseph James, Maria Khan, Daniel King, Alaa Mahmoud, Steven Niele, Mitchell Sharnick, and Benjamin Wisniewski.

Thesis Director Daniel Davis, AIA, was pleased with a high turnout, as approximately 200 people were in attendance.  Thesis Coordinators Mark Hopper, AIA and Tyler Smith, FAIA supported a wide range of student projects, including: academic facilities, mixed–use urban infill, a retreat, cultural centers, a winery, and a healthcare facility. The Thesis Panel was comprised of twelve industry professional reviewers who provided feedback following each student presentation.

Selected thesis projects will be exhibited throughout Connecticut including the AIA/Connecticut Gallery in New Haven [mid-May through mid-June], designated architectural firms, and selected other venues.

Our congratulations go out to Steven… cheers.