What Is WAF? Meet the Foundation Behind the Acronym

What is WAF? For almost 75 years, the Wisconsin Architects Foundation has been quietly serving as the non-profit arm of AIA Wisconsin with a rich history of contributing to our architectural community. While WAF makes for great word play like our annual WAFfle at the Design Awards Gala, even seasoned members use the acronym with the assumption that all are aware of its meaning, But the truth is, even most of them don’t truly understand the depth of the transformation that has taken place due to the influx of influence and philanthropy the Foundation has invested in our state over the years. For example, did you know that the UW-Milwaukee School of Architecture was established by our very own Foundation? SARUP, as it is now called, is currently one of the leading architecture programs in the country and feeds our firms with exceptional talent. In addition, were you aware that over the years, the Foundation has provided over $500,000 in scholarships to Wisconsin architecture students? This includes Technical School students as well as University graduate students. Grants are also provided annually to programs that help increase public awareness and promote architecture and design. These are the seeds that lay the groundwork for our state's built environment.

WAF is growing out of its acronym into its future as a strategic organization of thoughtful leaders who want you to know 'About Us'. Start with our new Wisconsin Architects Foundation website (can also be found on aiaw.org's menu bar), where you will find a plethora of information about the organization, such as our history and the students and programs we fund. While you are there, make a donation! Or better yet, encourage others to contribute to our mission. And watch this space, as more articles will appear in the AIA Wisconsin newsletter about the Foundation and its impact on Wisconsin’s past, present, and future. Because growing our industry and investing in the future of architecture is no WAFfing matter – or is it?