Henry Shane will be receiving the Advocate for Architecture and the City Award in recognition of his outstanding influence on architecture, design, and the cultural life of New Orleans while advancing the built environment at a local, national, or global level.

The Tulane School of Architecture and Built Environment is honored to present Marc Morial with the Friend of the School Award in recognition of his exceptional support to advance the mission of the School and his contribution to the growth and vitality of New Orleans.

Carol McMichael Reese will be honored with the Faculty Luminary Award to celebrate her dedication to teaching, mentorship, and scholarship that inspired generations of students and elevated the School's' academic excellence.

Wellington "Duke" Reiter will receive the Distinguished Alumni Award for his professional accomplishments, leadership, and service that reflects the highest values and aspirations of Tulane and the Built Environment.

Errol Barron, FAIA, (A ’64), will be receiving the first Faculty Luminary Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to architecture and education. A distinguished architect, educator, and artist, Barron has left a lasting impact on Tulane and the architectural community through his award-winning work, decades of teaching, and creative endeavors.

The Tulane School of Architecture and Built Environment is honored to present Gayle Benson with the Friend of the School Award in recognition of her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the Gulf South. As owner of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, she has led both teams to success while investing in major renovations like the $560 million Caesars Superdome project and securing future Super Bowls for the city. A dedicated philanthropist, she has donated millions to disaster relief, healthcare, and education, including support for Ochsner’s Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center, the Gayle and Tom Benson Ochsner Children’s Hospital, and Catholic charities. Beyond sports, she has played a transformative role in New Orleans’ economic and cultural landscape through Benson Capital Partners, real estate investments, and the restoration of St. Louis Cathedral. Mrs. Benson’s enduring impact on the city and region exemplifies the spirit of this award, and we look forward to celebrating her contributions at the Awards Gala.

Robert Ivy, FAIA (A ’76), will be honored with the first Distinguished Alumni Award for his outstanding contributions to the field architecture. As the former CEO of the American Institute of Architects and past editor-in-chief of Architectural Record, Ivy has made a lasting impact through his leadership, advocacy, and scholarship.

Mitch Landrieu will receive the Advocate for Architecture and the City Award for his leadership as a public servant and former senior advisor to President Biden, where he oversaw the implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, managing over 70,000 projects nationwide. As a two-term mayor of New Orleans, he led the city’s recovery efforts, removed Confederate monuments, and founded E Pluribus Unum to bridge divides across the American South.