Jim Boyce Memorial Scholarship (JBMS)

Jim Boyce Memorial Scholarship

This memorial scholarship honors Jim Boyce and former APA members and supporters who made a lasting impact in accessibility compliance. The scholarship encourages students to make accessibility part of their career development and aims to further promote accessibility in the built environment.

Geographic Scope: United States (accredited institutions)

Funder: Accessibility Professionals Association (APA), a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization (EIN: 46-0481104)

Eligibility

Who can apply:

• Students currently pursuing a degree in:
  • Architecture
  • Landscape architecture
  • Civil engineering
  • Construction management
  • Interior design
  • Other degree programs closely related to accessibility/universal design
• Must be enrolled at an accredited United States institution of higher learning
• Minimum 2.5 GPA or higher
• Must demonstrate strong interest in accessibility in both design portfolio and future career interests

Timeline

• Applications accepted through March each year
• Scholarship awarded in May via the attended institution's financial aid office
• 2027 application opens in fall 2026

Recent Recipients (2025)

• Ella Townsend - undergraduate architecture student
• Tristan Moon - undergraduate interior design student

Notable Past Winner

Trent Tunks (2018) - Master of Architecture student at University of Texas; wheelchair user advocating for inclusive design; competed in Urban Land Institute (ULI) Hines Student Competition

Application Process

1. Submission Deadline: Applications must be submitted by March 31 each year
2. Submission Method: Submit through your institution's financial aid office
3. Award Notification: Winners announced by early May
4. Award Delivery: Scholarship funds awarded via attended institution's financial aid office

Application Requirements

While specific application materials are not detailed in the provided content, applicants must demonstrate:

• Current enrollment in eligible degree program
• Maintenance of 2.5+ GPA
• Strong interest in accessibility through:
  • Design portfolio
  • Statement of future career interests in accessibility

Important Notes

• The 2026 JBMS application has closed (as of April 3, 2026)
• The 2027 application will open in fall 2026
• For questions about the application process, contact JBMS@APAaccess.org