The UK College of Design (CoD) is pleased to announce a pledge of $25,000 from Kevin Cooper, founding partner of Axis Architecture and Interiors in Indianapolis, starting Fall 2021. Cooper is a member of the UK School of Architecture Advisory Board.

This new scholarship, the Cooper Scholarship for Research and Design Studies, was created to support the diversity, equity and inclusion efforts of the College and will be awarded to underrepresented students in any academic program in support of travel and research opportunities. Cooper’s generous contribution – which will result in multiple scholarships annually – can also serve to support students in need of financial assistance, addressing issues of food insecurity, living expenses, design materials and more.

“As a current UK School of Architecture Advisory Board member, I want to encourage a broader, more diverse workforce in design but I also want it to be about equity, to give all students what they need to be successful,” explained Cooper. “I hope my contribution helps give underrepresented students the opportunity to travel and research design, to enhance their cognitive skills.”

UK College of Design Dean Mitzi Vernon believes the timing of this pledge aligns well with the College’s mission.

“This gift comes at a moment when the College self-reflects on what we must do now to establish a life-long practice and a roundtable of myriad voices, from student body to faculty and staff,” said Dean Vernon.

Assistant Vice President for Philanthropy Don Witt, who is supporting the College in its fundraising efforts, was able to work with Cooper to secure this gift. If you are interested in developing your own scholarship or other College philanthropic opportunities, please contact Don Witt at dwitt@uky.edu.