This year, Edmonton architecture firm Rockliff Pierzchajlo Kroman Architects (RPK) donated $25,000 to the University of Calgary School of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape (SAPL). The gift is to be used for the Indigenous Pathways Program initiated by the school to grow Indigenous presence in design and architectural careers by providing financial support to students as well as adding Indigenous ways of knowing to the curriculum. 

In an interview with the Gauntlet, the principal architect of RPK and seasonal professor Jan Kroman spoke of the intention of the donation, citing the lack of representation as a contributing factor. 

“Credit for the idea of having a scholarship for underrepresented folks that identify as Indigenous or Métis goes to my partner, Jonathan Rockcliff,” said Kroman. “It’s pretty telling when you take a look at the photo of the three of us on our website, the lack of representation in the field of architecture and just even in design. There’s a lot of minorities that are currently underrepresented. We want to help in a small way, and in a way that we can foster more inclusivity.” 

Kroman emphasizes the importance of financial support for under-represented groups, given the long academic journey that becoming a licensed architect demands. Since the U of C is the only architecture school in Alberta, the cost of moving and living in a new city can become a barrier to accessing education. 

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