SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Sept. 11, 2025) – The American Institute of Architects South Dakota (AIA SD) honored top projects and leading professionals at its annual Celebration of Architecture, which opened three days of design-focused sessions at the organization’s state convention.
Incoming 2026 AIA President Illya Azaroff, FAIA, joined members, partners and guests on Wednesday to recognize architects and advocates whose work has shaped communities in South Dakota and beyond.
“Tonight we are recognizing people who have created something unique—something that moves us to something better,” Azaroff said.
Four Honorees Recognized
- Elizabeth Stanton, AIA, of Schemmer in Sioux Falls, received the Young Architect Award for her focus on mental health design and active service on AIA SD committees.
- Cory Bleyenburg, Assoc. AIA, project director at CO-OP Architecture, earned the Associate Award for more than 25 years of design-industry experience and dedication to mentoring students.
- Sandra Lea Dickenson, AIA Emeritus, was presented the Legacy Award for her decades of advocacy, design work and leadership as one of the first women architects in the state.
- James Cramer, Hon. AIA, Hon. IIDA, a South Dakota native and founder of DesignIntelligence, received the Champion of Architecture Award for his national leadership and continued ties to his alma mater, Northern State University.
Top Design Awards
AIA SD also announced winners of its juried Design Awards, recognizing standout architectural projects across the region:
- Honor Award: Cankdeska Cikana Community College Cultural Heritage Center (Fort Totten, N.D.), designed by JLG Architects, for its open, accessible design that reflects the tribe’s cultural history.
- Merit Award: 4th & Main Office (Bismarck, N.D.), a renovation and facade replacement by JLG Architects.
- Merit Award: Lake Brophy Welcome Center (Alexandria, Minn.), a new nature-focused hub designed by JLG Architects.
The awards were selected by a jury led by Joshua Hemberger, AIA, and Leah Rudolphi, AIA, associate principals and owners at Substance Architecture in Des Moines, Iowa.
Looking Ahead
The AIA South Dakota Annual Conference continues Sept. 11–12 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center, featuring keynote speakers from health care and global interior design.
AIA South Dakota represents architects, future architects and partners across the state, advancing the role of design in creating strong communities throughout South Dakota and the Black Hills.
