MINNEAPOLIS, June 25, 2024—Patricia Mutebi, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, an architectural designer with Snow Kreilich Architects, and Ashley Vanden Bosch, Assoc. AIA, a project manager with PKA, are the winners of the 2024 AIA Minnesota Next Gen Award.

The Next Gen Award is given to recent graduates of an accredited NAAB architecture program who have demonstrated early leadership potential or exceptional service to the AIA, the architecture profession, or the community at large.

Patricia Mutebi believes that architecture is a powerful tool for creating positive change in communities. She is committed to sustainable design practices and believes that every building should enhance the well-being of its users and the environment. Her vision for the future includes continuing to advocate for socially responsible architecture that addresses the needs of diverse populations and promotes equity within the profession. 

Mutebi serves on the Minnesota Architectural Foundation (MAF) Board, chairs the MAF’s Clarence Wigington Architectural Scholarship, and recently co-chaired the BOLD Mentorship Program.

“Through mentorship and her strong involvement in AIA, NOMA, and the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, Mutebi is a trailblazer in establishing paths forward for BIPOC students to become architects,” the Next Gen Award jury enthused. “We are so impressed by the breadth of her focus on other people—the way she’s building bridges, connecting people with the resources they need.”

Ashley Vanden Bosch has excelled in both project management of complex single-family residential projects and a range of advocacy efforts on behalf of emerging architecture professionals. She currently serves on the AIA Minneapolis Board, Membership Engagement Committee, and Advocacy Committee; the AIA St. Paul Mentorship Task Force; and the AIA Minnesota Emerging Professionals Committee and Licensure Pathways Task Force.

“Ashley is a leader by nature,” wrote AIA St. Paul president Dantès Ha, AIA, in a letter of support for Vanden Bosch’s nomination. “Despite the significant challenges posed by entering the profession during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashley demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. As co-chair of the Emerging Professionals Committee, she played a crucial role in fostering vital connections and community engagement during a time of unprecedented isolation. Her leadership and stewardship were instrumental in transforming the committee, evidenced by a dramatic increase in participation.”

Serving on the 2024 AIA Minnesota Next Gen Award jury were AIA Minnesota member leaders Nathan Johnson, FAIA, NOMA, Katie Kangas, AIA, Ed Kodet, FAIA, Michael Laverdure, AIA, and Ellie Ziaie, AIA.

Mutebi and Vanden Bosch will be honored at an AIA Minnesota Awards Celebration on August 15, 2024. Learn more about the AIA Minnesota Next Gen Award here.

The American Institute of Architects Minnesota, founded in 1892, is dedicated to strengthening our communities, improving our built environment, and providing exceptional design. For more information on the organization and Minnesota architectural firms, visit our website and subscribe to ENTER, our digital monthly newsletter that explores the people and ideas shaping a better built environment for Minnesota.