º£½ÇÉçÇø

 

Research and Design Awards

H. Allen Brooks Traveling Fellowship

The H. Allen Brooks Travelling Fellowship is a prestigious award that supports a year of independent, global study through travel and reflection. It enables an exceptionally promising emerging architect or planner to observe, sketch, read, write, and gain the kind of unstructured intellectual time that deepens professional understanding and enriches future contributions to the built environment.

The award amount is generous and supports travel and living expenses for one year. In special circumstances, the fellowship may be awarded for a minimum of three months or granted to two recipients simultaneously.

Who Can Apply?

Students graduating from or recently graduated from the professional programs in º£½ÇÉçÇøâ€™s Faculty of Architecture and Planning:

  • Master of Architecture
  • Master of Planning
  • Bachelor of Community Design (Honours) – professional program graduates only

What We’re Looking For

The fellowship is awarded only when a truly outstanding candidate applies. Successful applicants demonstrate:

  • Distinguished academic achievement
  • Strong leadership potential
  • Personal motivation and intellectual promise
  • A compelling plan for study through travel and contemplation

Applicants must submit:

  • A portfolio of academic design work
  • A current curriculum vitae
  • A proposal outlining the intended program of study, travel itinerary, and intellectual goals

About the Fellowship

The fellowship was established through a $250,000 USD bequest from the Estate of Dr. H. Allen Brooks (DENG ’84, Honorary Doctor of Engineering). Dr. Brooks was a respected architectural historian whose legacy supports emerging professionals as they broaden their thinking through global exploration. The award is intended to be an honour of distinction—granted only when an applicant’s achievements and potential are exceptional. 

At the conclusion of the fellowship period, the recipient must submit a brief report to the Faculty of Architecture and Planning, with a copy forwarded to the Society of Architectural Historians for their information and possible publication.

Submission Requirements

Submit all materials to the Dean of Architecture & Planning at dean.ap@dal.ca:

  • Academic portfolio
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Proposed program of study and travel plan

Selection Process

Recipients are chosen by the Dean of the Faculty (or designate). The fellowship is awarded only when a candidate demonstrates exceptional merit in all areas. Recipients will be notified following committee review.

Lezlie Oler Prize in Community & Environmental Design

The Lezlie Oler Prize in Community & Environmental Design is an annual award that celebrates creative thinking and small-scale, thoughtful design ideas that can make a big impact on urban spaces. The winning entry receives $1,500, presented at the Spring Convocation Tea Ceremony.

Who Can Apply?

Students currently enrolled in º£½ÇÉçÇøâ€™s Faculty of Architecture and Planning:

  • 4th-year BCD Honours students
  • 1st or 2nd-year Master of Architecture students
  • Master of Planning students

What We're Looking For

Applicants must propose a design idea for a location within the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) where a modest intervention would greatly enhance the aesthetic quality of urban public space. Successful ideas will be:

  • Interesting and Attractive
  • Cost-Effective and Practical
  • Community-Oriented, promoting a sense of belonging and vibrancy

About the Award

The award was established in 2007 through the generosity of Dr. David Zitner, in recognition of Lezlie Oler’s innovative design ideas. Ms. Oler, a business owner and long-time supporter of the Faculty, believes that thoughtful design does not have to be expensive to transform cityscapes and foster community. Her vision inspires students to create interventions that beautify Halifax and raise awareness of urban design issues.

Submission Requirements

Applicants prepare a 4-page proof-of-concept booklet (digital format) illustrating their idea and recommendations for implementation. 

Submissions should be made to the Dean of the Faculty (or designate) at dean.ap@dal.ca.

Selection Process

Entries are reviewed by a committee of faculty representatives and Ms. Lezlie Oler. The recipient will be notified prior to the Spring Convocation Tea Ceremony.