Manteno Student Recognized for Promise in Architecture and Design

BLDD Architects, Inc., is pleased to announce recipients of the annual Because Life Deserves Design Scholarship. The scholarship — named for BLDD’s mission “Because Life Deserves Design” — recognizes senior high school students for their creativity, artistic passion, and potential in contributing to the world of architecture, interior design, or graphic design.

BLDD Principal Mark Ritz said a record number of students applied this year by submitting a unique piece of artwork that embodied the phrase “because life deserves design,” a written artist’s statement, and materials showing their intent to pursue a design major in their higher education.

Reese Eldridge, of Manteno High School, received a $500 award for her white pencil and acrylic artwork, “Lemon Still Life.” The jury was impressed with the layering and detail.” Eldridge plans to study Architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

Other recipients included: Sophia Guerrettaz, of Rochester High School, for her “Look to the Light;” Taylor Hug, St. Joseph-Ogden High School, for her extraordinary scratch-board piece entitled “Portrait of Javier Baez;” Margaret Schmidt, Champaign Unit 4 Central High School, for her piece entitled “Frank Lloyd Wright Inspired Window Scene;” and Kendall Lyell, also of Champaign Unit 4, Centennial High School, for her piece entitled “Knight Mural.”

BLDD appreciates and is proud of all applicants who took the time to apply. During the course of five years, $15,500 has been awarded to graduating seniors.