Katherine Ankerson, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s executive vice chancellor for academic affairs, has earned the 2022 Architectural Design/Educator Award from the American Institute of Architects Nebraska.

Ankerson demonstrated expertise in the allied professions of architecture and academic leadership, and will formally receive her award at the 2022 AIA Nebraska and Central States Excellence in Design Gala on Nov. 4 at the Country Club of Lincoln.

“Katherine is a devoted mentor and passionate proponent of design education and cross-disciplinary collaboration,” said Sharon Kuska, interim dean and award nominator. “We are proud to say she is the first architecture/design member to serve as the executive vice chancellor at UNL and very deserving of this prestigious AIA educator award. In her new role, Katherine continues to champion the design disciplines and the impact that spatial and design-thinking have on teaching, research and engagement across the state and beyond.”

Ankerson is a highly respected member and advocate of design education and this honor adds to her long list of accolades and accomplishments as an educator. In addition to the 2022 AIA award, Ankerson was named the 2020 International Interior Design Association Educator of the Year and was one of six IIDA members inducted into the prestigious IIDA College of Fellows for 2020. In 2017, she was also named as an Interior Design Educators Council Fellow.

Well-known for her positive impact and engagement with the allied design professions, Ankerson has held numerous board positions with organizations such as the Council for Interior Design Accreditation, AIA Nebraska, AIA Nebraska Foundation, the Nuckolls Fund for Lighting Education and IDEC among other professional contributions.

“It is humbling to be named and honored with this award among others who have led this college and the allied professions with great distinction and forethought,” Ankerson said. “As executive vice chancellor, I look forward to the various opportunities to propel and advance the academic mission of the university and that of the design and planning community, creating an environment where all can thrive.”

In addition to AIA, Ankerson is a member of IIDA and IDEC, a licensed architect in Washington and Nebraska and holds a National Council of Architectural Registration Boards certificate.

AIA Nebraska is the state chapter of the American Institute of Architects, the largest professional association for architects, interns and those directly involved in the practice of architecture. AIA Nebraska strives to meet the needs and interests of Nebraska architects and the public they serve by developing public awareness of the value of architecture and the importance of good design.