Thomas Fisher, Assoc. AIA, director of the Minnesota Design Center at the University of Minnesota, has been named the 2025 recipient of the AIA/ACSA Topaz Medallion for Excellence in Architectural Education. But this recognition comes with a certain gravitas: Fisher is the first University of Minnesota honoree since Ralph Rapson in 1987.

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“I was honored to be the second University of Minnesota educator to receive the AIA/ACSA’s Topaz Medallion for Excellence in Architectural Education, after the noted architect and former head of the School of Architecture, Ralph Rapson, won it in 1987,” Fisher says. “Having, for decades, written about and lectured on many of the challenges we face in the world—housing unaffordability, economic inequality, climate instability, health insecurity—I was gratified that my colleagues in the architectural profession recognized that work and valued the role that our field can play in addressing those concerns.”
Fisher’s contributions to architecture span leadership, research, and teaching. Over the past 10 years, he has directed the Minnesota Design Center—securing over $5.7 million in funding for projects addressing equity, climate resilience, and public health. His initiatives include reimagining urban infrastructure, launching nonprofits to combat homelessness, and training youth in design and technology.
As dean of the College of Design at the University of Minnesota from 1996-2015, he unified design disciplines, created innovative programs, and raised funds for scholarships and cutting-edge facilities. A dedicated educator, author, and writer, Fisher has taught over 3,000 students, supervised 90 thesis projects, and has written 12 books and over 630 articles—all while continuing to mentor future designers.

Photo by Warren Bruland
His influence stretches beyond architecture with leadership roles in organizations like AIA and NAAB. There, he has championed diversity and pushed critical changes, combining design with policy and economics to show just how architecture can help solve some of the world’s biggest challenges.
The national honor recognizes one educator each year who has profoundly influenced architectural education and the profession. Learn more about Fisher’s selection here.