The R. Corey Clayborne, FAIA Scholarship
R. Corey Clayborne, FAIA was in the inaugural ELA class of 2009. Corey has served at local and state AIA components and now is the AIA Senior Vice President, Knowledge & Practice. Corey is a strong believer in increasing diversity in the profession and offering opportunities for all to gain knowledge and advancement in their careers.
In 2022, AIA Virginia established a scholarship in Corey’s name to honor his dedication to emerging professionals and provide financial assistance to those interested in participating in the ELA program.
The R. Corey Clayborne, FAIA ELA Scholarship is available to any ELA applicant with financial need, either to cover tuition or travel expenses for their class year.
The scholarship is awarded to 2026 class member Atheeni Eacharath, Associate AIA, Community Planning + Design Manager at Pillars Development.
In her application for the scholarship, Eacharath commented “I am committed to pursuing licensure and being active in both APA and AIA, yet the pathway for urban designers is not always direct. Our work sits between planning and architecture, requiring additional time, investment, and mentorship—resources that are not always equitable or accessible. Still, I am determined to bridge that disciplinary space. The ELA program offers a structure to deepen this commitment—to build a web of relationships among architects, planners, policymakers, and community members so our decision-making systems become more collaborative, resilient, and humane. This scholarship would allow me to fully participate, engage in conferences, connect with mentors, and continue growing as a community-centered designer—grounded, hopeful, and dedicated.”
Congratulations, Atheeni!
Donations to the R. Corey Clayborne, FAIA Scholarship can be made through the AIA Virginia Foundation here.