Each year, IDSA recognizes exceptional student design talent through our Student Merit Awards program. The competition highlights the very best creativity, problem solving and design brilliance in each of IDSA's five North American Districts. A jury panel of design leaders and educators representing a cross-section of professional practice and design academia is assembled annually to review and select winners. This ensures the highest level of quality and rigor is achieved throughout all stages of the process. Two winners are selected from each District for this prestigious distinction, one at the Undergraduate (SMA) level and one at the Graduate (GSMA) level. 

Student Merit Award winners (and the schools they represent) benefit from massive media exposure through IDSA's extensive reach and high-level industry recognition. These individuals receive an online profile, a print feature in INNOVATION magazine, a trophy and special distinction at the annual International Design Conference. IDSA is proud to witness the incredible acceleration that winning an SMA provides in the professional success of those who participate. 

2022 SMA & GSMA Winner Presentations

Join us live or virtually on Monday, September 12 and Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at Benaroya Hall in Seattle, Washington to see the winners of the 2022 Student Merit Awards present their work from the IDC main stage. Each of these students has worked hard to achieve this great honor and are among the top emerging design talent in their district. The live presentations will also include presentations of the SMA trophy for each winner. 

Learn more about IDC and get your tickets today!