(Tuesday, August 27, 2024. Sacramento, CA.) The California Architectural Foundation (CAF) and American Institute of Architects California are honored to announce the recipients of 2024 Paul W. Welch, Jr. ARE Scholarship.
The program was created to celebrate Paul W. Welch Jr.’s unwavering belief in the power of the architectural license.
This year two AIA Associate members studying to attain their architectural license were awarded Paul W. Welch Jr. ARE Scholarships which reimburses the cost of passing each division of the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) and the CA Supplemental Exam.
“We are delighted to recognize Yuriy Avramenko, Assoc. AIA and Michael Cintron, Assoc. AIA for their commitment to licensure,” noted Mary Follenweider, FAIA, President, California Architectural Foundation. “Though they have pursued individualized paths to complete their AREs successfully, their support of their peers also on this journey is a mark of their leadership within this profession.”
“Yuriy and Michael each possess the dedication to licensure and to the profession that embodied my commitment to the American Institute of Architects California,” said Paul W. Welch, Jr., who funds this scholarship and served as the organization’s Executive Vice President for over four decades. “I look forward to seeing their future as licensed architects and AIA members.”
About the Recipients
Yuriy Avramenko, Assoc. AIA – AIA Central Valley Associate Director
Yuriy Avramenko, Assoc. AIA “has chosen to pursue the licensure process through experience: This is an uncommon approach but one that provides a uniquely grounded experience for the potential candidate for licensure. But this approach takes internal resolution to pursue the licensure goal. Many candidates remain in design and let go of the professional pursuit of Architectural Licensure. But here, I am excited to present to you a nominee who is holding onto the dream…” wrote Andre Branov in support of Avramenko’s candidacy.
The jury agreed, “Yuriy Avramenko, Assoc. AIA shows the resolve to be licensed, has a clear dedication to the profession, and a strong work ethic.”
In addition to Avramenko’s commitment to passing the ARE, he serves as AIA Central Valley Associate Director.
Michael Cintron, Assoc. AIA – AIA CA Licensing Advisor, South
While Michael Cintron, Assoc. AIA has pursued his own license, he has actively worked to advance licensure for others. He first volunteered with AIA San Diego in 2018; worked at the Chapter as an intern for three and a half years while attending school; created numerous opportunities to connect students to the larger architectural community; and, having completed his education actively supports the pursuit of licensure by his peers through multiple avenues.
The Jury “appreciates someone who, so early in their career, is so dedicated to serving the profession. His portfolio includes excellent built and unbuilt projects, and a significant record of community service. It shows a real passionate commitment. His service to the profession is clear and admirable. “
The 2024 Welch Scholarship Jury was composed of: Mary Follenweider, FAIA – President, CAF; Jeannie S. Bertolaccini, AIA – CAF Regent & Principal for Ordiz Melby Architects; Debra Gerod, FAIA – CAF Regent & Partner at Gruen Associates; Emily Potts, AIA – Assistant Professor at Sacramento State University; and Ginger Thompson, AIA – AEP COA Vice President & Dreyfuss + Blackford Architecture Associate.
About The California Architectural Foundation
The California Architectural Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting excellence in architecture through scholarships, grants, and educational programs—bridging the gap between the academic and professional worlds. CAF exists to provide a mechanism for members of the AIA and the general public to contribute to an organization with a great benefit to society.
