Jeffrey Ferweda, AIA, Receives 2026 AIA Michigan Robert F. Hastings Award

FLINT, Mich. — Jeffrey Ferweda, AIA, NCARB, Principal Owner of Sedgewick + Ferweda Architects, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Robert F. Hastings Award by AIA Michigan. The award was presented on Friday, June 5, 2026, at St. John’s Resort in Plymouth, Michigan.

Named in honor of Robert F. Hastings, FAIA,  past president of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the first recipient of the Institute’s Kemper Award, the Hastings Award recognizes a specific significant effort and contribution to AIA Michigan and the architectural profession.

Ferweda has dedicated decades of service and leadership to both the architectural industry and his local community. Throughout his career, he has remained deeply involved with AIA at the local, state, and national levels, serving as AIA Michigan Board President in 2015, Michigan Representative to the AIA National Strategic Council from 2016–2019, Michigan Representative for the AIA National Small Firm Exchange, and Past President and Director of AIA Flint. In 2010, he was recognized as AIA Flint’s Board Member of the Year.

Beyond organizational leadership, Ferweda has been a consistent advocate for the future of the profession. He and his team annually participate in AIA Legislative Day in Lansing, Michigan, meeting with lawmakers and advocating on issues impacting architects and architecture students throughout Michigan. Most recently, he has been an advocate regarding the recent nonprofessional degree designation and its potential long-term implications for the profession and future generations of architects.

“I am honored to be this year’s recipient of the Robert F. Hastings Award. As an Architect, it is my responsibility to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. By advocating for our profession and encouraging my team to do the same, we are making our voices heard and protecting the future of our industry,” said Ferweda.

“The Hastings Award recognizes significant service and contributions to AIA Michigan, and no one is more deserving of this year’s honor than Jeff. He has served for many years in leadership roles, first as a state board member representing the Flint Chapter and later on the executive committee serving all of AIA Michigan. He also worked directly with our director on the interior finish design for our organization’s main office in Detroit. At the national level, Jeff represented AIA Michigan as a strategic counselor in Washington, D.C., and later devoted many years to the Small Firm Roundtable, a national interest group. It has been my pleasure to serve alongside Jeff throughout much of his leadership journey,” said Dan LaPan, AIA.

Outside of architecture, Ferweda is heavily engaged in community leadership and volunteerism. He recently served as Rotary International District Governor for District 6330 for the July 2025 – July 2026 term and is a member of the Genesee Valley Rotary Club. His additional community involvement includes serving on the Flint Building Board of Appeals, the Owosso Historic District Commission, and the Owosso Library Recommendation Board.

As Principal Owner of Sedgewick + Ferweda Architects, Ferweda has helped guide the Flint-based firm through decades of growth while fostering a culture centered on thoughtful design, community engagement, mentorship, and service. Under his leadership, the firm has remained committed to creating impactful spaces that strengthen communities across Michigan.

About Sedgewick + Ferweda Architects

Founded in 1958  by Thomas Sedgewick, FAIA, Sedgewick + Ferweda Architects is a Flint, Michigan-based architecture firm providing architectural, interior design, and planning services throughout the Midwest. The firm specializes in community-centered design across a variety of sectors, including commercial, nonprofit, healthcare, and education. Guided by the philosophy of “Good Clients + Good Design + Great Architecture,” the firm is committed to creating spaces that positively impact the communities they serve.

Media Contact:

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