2026 AIA WISCONSIN GOLDEN AWARD WINNER

"Matthew Edwards’ passion for architecture extends far beyond himself or any single organization. His career is marked by sustained service, thoughtful leadership, and a deep commitment to advancing the profession through advocacy, education, sustainability, and mentorship. Through his actions, he has strengthened AIA Wisconsin, elevated the profession, and inspired countless Architects - or aspiring Architects." - Allyson Nemec, AIA, LEED AP & Emily Neal, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP (Nominators)

Matthew Edwards, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, is the recipient of the 2026 Golden Award, AIA Wisconsin's highest individual honor, in recognition of his extraordinary service, leadership, and lasting impact on the architectural profession. For nearly two decades, Matthew has dedicated himself to advancing AIA Wisconsin and supporting architects at every stage of their careers. Shortly after relocating to Wisconsin in 2006, he became a driving force in supporting emerging professionals, co-chairing the Emerging Professionals Committee, launching an IDP (now AXP) study group, and organizing educational programs that strengthened pathways to licensure and professional growth. His leadership continued through service as Acting President of AIA Milwaukee, where he also led the annual Structures Seminars, a highly regarded educational program that supported licensure candidates while generating critical resources for the chapter.

Throughout his career, Matthew has consistently championed opportunities for others. As a mentor, colleague and leader, he has helped shape the careers of countless emerging professionals by fostering growth, encouraging leadership and creating pathways for meaningful engagement in the profession. His influence can be seen in the many architects he has inspired, as well as in his ongoing service to AIA Wisconsin's Design Awards Committee. There, he played a pivotal role in expanding the program to recognize a broader range of architectural excellence through the introduction of Special Recognition Awards for Adaptive Reuse, Community Impact, Historic Preservation, Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI), and Sustainable Design—ensuring the awards program better reflects the values and impact of contemporary architectural practice.

Matthew's professional work reflects the same values that define his service. As a Partner at Quorum Architects, he has led projects that advance healthcare, affordable housing, community development and sustainability throughout Wisconsin and beyond, including the Urban Ecology Center at Washington Park, Victory Manor at Westlawn Gardens, Rogers Behavioral Health facilities, Vivent Health HIV care and prevention centers, the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Research Center and the adaptive reuse of Milwaukee's historic McKinley School. Through his advocacy for evidence-based and empathetic design, his commitment to mentorship, and his sustained service to AIA Wisconsin, Matthew has elevated the profession, strengthened communities, and inspired generations of architects. His career embodies the spirit of the Golden Award through distinguished leadership, selfless service, and an enduring commitment to the future of architecture in Wisconsin.