School of architecture & design announces 2018 distinguished alumni awards

LAWRENCE — The School of Architecture & Design (Arc/D) at the University of Kansas has announced the recipients of the 2018 Distinguished Alumni Awards. This year’s honorees are architect John Guenther, Distinguished Alumnus; designer and executive David Hill, Distinguished Alumnus; and architect Laura Eder, Young Architect/Designer. 

The Distinguished Alumni Awards recognize individuals who have demonstrated leadership and made a significant contribution to the design and architectural professions. Guenther, whose award-winning projects scale from a children’s clubhouse to the master plan of a 67-square-mile city, has been recognized by the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C., and is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, the organization’s highest honor. 

Hill, chief design officer emeritus for Lenovo, holds over 60 issued patents and is best known as co-creator of the iconic ThinkPad. 

Eder, in less than 10 years since graduating, has served as lead architect for multiple large-scale projects, including a 75-acre corporate headquarters complex and a 23-story, mixed-use tower. 

Of the award winners, Arc/D Dean Mahesh Daas said, “This year’s alumni honorees truly exemplify our school’s vision of global impact through their pioneering work. They are leaders who crossed disciplinary boundaries. These Jayhawks care deeply about our environment and culture.” 

The award winners will be honored at the Alumni Banquet at the East Hills Design-Build Center on Oct. 19 following Arc/D’s annual Alumni Symposium. The 2018 Alumni Symposium: 12K Who Converge will explore current and future intersections in the professions of architecture and design. Event details and more information about the honorees can be found at http://arcd.ku.edu/2018-12ku-who-converge.