On June 21, 2025, NewSchool of Architecture & Design held commencement for the Class of 2025 at San Diego’s Balboa Theater.Ìý
Gordon Carrier and Robin WilsonÌýCarrier, active members of San Diego’s design community and founders of their respective design firms (Carrier Johnson + Culture and Robin Wilson Interior Design), led the Commencement Address and celebrated the hard work, perseverance, and passion of the graduating class. Ìý
Equipped with professional degrees in architecture, design, and construction management, NewSchool’s graduatesÌýcarryÌýthe skills, knowledge, and human-centered mindset to thrive in the design world and shape communitiesÌýfueled by their creativity and aspirations.Ìý

Student AwardsÌý
Among this year’s cohort are a handful of students who represent the pinnacle of their class. Their achievements were recognized with the following awards:Ìý
Outstanding Student Award for the School of Design Ìý
Presented to a student who exemplifies exceptional creativity, professionalism, and dedication in the field of design. It honors innovative thinking, high-quality project execution, and consistent excellence in their design work. Recipients include:
• Zachary Brown, Bachelor of Arts in Product Design
• Lauren Willes, Interdisciplinary Design Distinction
Outstanding Student Award for Construction Management Ìý
Presented to a construction management student who has demonstrated exceptional academic performance and dedication to their studies, reflecting a commitment to intellectual growth and scholarly achievement.ÌýRecipients include:
• Henry Vergil, Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
• Leah Halbert, Master of Construction Management
• Shuang Mao, Master of Construction Management
• Morgan Westbrook, Master of Construction Management
The Outstanding Design Award Ìý
NewSchool’s longest-standing recognition, this award recognizes design that is innovative or accomplished and is of the highest possible visual and material quality. Recipients include:
• Quang Vu Nguyen, Bachelor of Architecture
• Kyle Dalpra, Interior Architecture & Design
• Joseph Siclot, Master of Architecture 4+3 IPAL
The Outstanding Thesis Award Ìý
Presented to a Master of Architecture student whose thesis demonstrates exceptional originality, rigorous research, and exemplary design solutions. Recipients include:
• Ryan Craft, Master of Architecture 4+2
The Medal for Academic Excellence Ìý
Awarded by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) to the top-ranking students graduating from a NAAB-accreditedÌýBachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture, or Doctor of Architecture program. Recipients include:
• Quang Vu Nguyen, Bachelor of Architecture
• Ryan Craft, Master of Architecture 4+2