FOURTH YEAR UNDERGRADUATE
Savannah Baker—Toronto Society of Architects Award
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Savannah Baker—Toronto Society of Architects Award
About the Award
Toronto Society of Architects Award:
Established in 1887, the Toronto Society of Architects (TSA) is a non-profit volunteer-led organization dedicated to bringing people together to discuss, learn and explore around our shared passion for the built environment.
The TSA is committed to the betterment of our city, civic literacy on architecture and design, and the personal and professional growth of its members. Born from a spirit of community and collegiality within the profession, the work of the TSA is made possible thanks to the effort and dedication of dozens of volunteers contributing countless hours to make a better city and profession.
The Toronto Society of Architects Award recognizes this giving spirit, highlighting the importance of volunteering and service to the community.
Throughout my undergraduate studies at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), I have been deeply committed to volunteerism and leadership within the Department of Architectural Science (DAS). My goal has always been to build community, foster collaboration, and create opportunities that empower others.
American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)
The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing leadership, design, and service among architecture students. This international organization aims to empower students to shape the future of the built environment and architectural profession through educational programming and community engagement. The organization has chapters globally, with the TMU AIAS Chapter as the only Canadian chapter in good standing.
What began as a way to meet peers and become more involved in campus life quickly grew into a passion for community building and service. I have dedicated my time, energy, and skills to strengthening the DAS community through the AIAS chapter.
At first I took on smaller roles like Events Team Lead, where I worked closely with fellow volunteers to execute events that benefited the DAS Community. We organized a variety of events from skill-building workshops to networking sessions. These events were designed to help students gain confidence, develop technical and soft skills, and create connections beyond the classroom.
As AIAS Secretary, I supported internal communications, coordinated large-scale events, and took on a leadership role in developing the chapter’s programming. Through this role, I developed a reputation for being dependable, organized and collaborative, qualities that I believe lie at the heart of effective volunteerism.
This year, I am serving as the AIAS President, a role that is one of stewardship and mentorship. I am responsible for guiding the team of volunteers, setting the chapter’s priorities, and ensuring the programming reflects the needs of our student body. This year, AIAS has expanded opportunities to prepare students for professional practice, drawing from my own personal co-op experience to bring real-world insight back to campus. By leading workshops on technical skills, networking, and professional development, I aim to give the DAS community the tools they need to succeed after graduation.
Outside of the TMU Chapter, I have also been chosen to represent international students in the AIAS Council of Global Representatives. My role includes advocating for the unique needs of Canadian and International chapters in the greater AIAS network.
Other Initiatives
Outside of my time spent with AIAS, I seek other opportunities to give back to the community that has supported my education. I have served as an Outreach Coordinator for the DAS Lecture Series, participated in multiple Design Build projects, and contributed to the Architectural Course Union’s Mentorship Program. As a mentor to first- and second-year students, I help them navigate coursework, studio culture, and the transition into architectural studies.
For me, volunteering and leadership is about the actions I make, not just the title I have been given. Whether mentoring younger students, advocating for peers, or collaborating with other student leaders, I strive to create an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
This ongoing commitment to service has shaped my time at TMU and my vision for the future. Architecture is inherently collaborative and civic-minded; by volunteering my time and skills now, I am learning how to be the kind of professional who uplifts colleagues, contributes to the public good, and uses design as a tool for positive change.
Toronto Society of Architects Award:
Established in 1887, the Toronto Society of Architects (TSA) is a non-profit volunteer-led organization dedicated to bringing people together to discuss, learn and explore around our shared passion for the built environment.
The TSA is committed to the betterment of our city, civic literacy on architecture and design, and the personal and professional growth of its members. Born from a spirit of community and collegiality within the profession, the work of the TSA is made possible thanks to the effort and dedication of dozens of volunteers contributing countless hours to make a better city and profession.
The Toronto Society of Architects Award recognizes this giving spirit, highlighting the importance of volunteering and service to the community.
Throughout my undergraduate studies at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), I have been deeply committed to volunteerism and leadership within the Department of Architectural Science (DAS). My goal has always been to build community, foster collaboration, and create opportunities that empower others.
American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)
The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing leadership, design, and service among architecture students. This international organization aims to empower students to shape the future of the built environment and architectural profession through educational programming and community engagement. The organization has chapters globally, with the TMU AIAS Chapter as the only Canadian chapter in good standing.
What began as a way to meet peers and become more involved in campus life quickly grew into a passion for community building and service. I have dedicated my time, energy, and skills to strengthening the DAS community through the AIAS chapter.
At first I took on smaller roles like Events Team Lead, where I worked closely with fellow volunteers to execute events that benefited the DAS Community. We organized a variety of events from skill-building workshops to networking sessions. These events were designed to help students gain confidence, develop technical and soft skills, and create connections beyond the classroom.
As AIAS Secretary, I supported internal communications, coordinated large-scale events, and took on a leadership role in developing the chapter’s programming. Through this role, I developed a reputation for being dependable, organized and collaborative, qualities that I believe lie at the heart of effective volunteerism.
This year, I am serving as the AIAS President, a role that is one of stewardship and mentorship. I am responsible for guiding the team of volunteers, setting the chapter’s priorities, and ensuring the programming reflects the needs of our student body. This year, AIAS has expanded opportunities to prepare students for professional practice, drawing from my own personal co-op experience to bring real-world insight back to campus. By leading workshops on technical skills, networking, and professional development, I aim to give the DAS community the tools they need to succeed after graduation.
Outside of the TMU Chapter, I have also been chosen to represent international students in the AIAS Council of Global Representatives. My role includes advocating for the unique needs of Canadian and International chapters in the greater AIAS network.
Other Initiatives
Outside of my time spent with AIAS, I seek other opportunities to give back to the community that has supported my education. I have served as an Outreach Coordinator for the DAS Lecture Series, participated in multiple Design Build projects, and contributed to the Architectural Course Union’s Mentorship Program. As a mentor to first- and second-year students, I help them navigate coursework, studio culture, and the transition into architectural studies.
For me, volunteering and leadership is about the actions I make, not just the title I have been given. Whether mentoring younger students, advocating for peers, or collaborating with other student leaders, I strive to create an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
This ongoing commitment to service has shaped my time at TMU and my vision for the future. Architecture is inherently collaborative and civic-minded; by volunteering my time and skills now, I am learning how to be the kind of professional who uplifts colleagues, contributes to the public good, and uses design as a tool for positive change.
