About Liz
Liz was a beautiful, intelligent, and talented young woman. Architecture was her passion, as it combined her talents and interest in art, design, and building. Her smile was pure sunshine! Liz worked hard and excelled in her studies while helping others understand the field she loved.
Liz’s years at Washington University in St Louis were some of her happiest and most fulfilling. After graduating cum laude in 2003 with a BS in Architecture, Liz began the master’s degree program in landscape architecture at the University of Pennsylvania.
Shortly after beginning her graduate studies, Liz was diagnosed with brain cancer. While courageously pursuing treatment for nineteen months, she stayed focused on her passion while working part-time at Astorino Associates in Pittsburgh. Although Liz died in April 2005, the joy she had for life and architecture continues on in all the lives she touched.
The Scholarship
Jonathan and Veronica Schmerling and their son, Bruce, chose to honor Liz’s memory by establishing the Elizabeth S. Schmerling Endowed Scholarship at the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts at Washington University. “Given the wonderful education she acquired at Wash U and her love for the university, we determined that establishing the scholarship fund to award to deserving and accomplished young students was the most appropriate way to honor and remember our daughter,” Jonathan explains.
Since 2005, the scholarship has grown through the gifts of family and friends. Between one and three scholarships may be awarded annually, as determined by a committee of four faculty members. Selection is based on superior academic performance and scholarship, innovative approaches to the science and art of architecture, and a commitment to the study and understanding of architecture. Recipients serve as an inspiration to both peers and professors.
For award recipients and direct donations, please visit the Sam Fox School website.
13th Annual Quilt Raffle
$10 each, or $25 for 3
On Sale: April 1 – April 30, 2024
Drawing: May 2
This quilt came out of a suggestion from one of our avid supporters: “try to find some fabrics with buildings.”” I’m not sure this is what that person had in mind, but I do believe it showcases Liz’s love of architecture. Morning, noon and night, architecture is all around us and takes on a different perspective depending on the light and the terrain. Each skyline is quilted with a different pattern: clouds for morning, butterflies midday and stars at night. An embroidered tag commemorating the scholarship is on the blue-gray fabric backing. The quilt measures approximately 60” x 76”.
The winner will be drawn using random.org, notified via email and then posted on this site. All proceeds will be donated to the Elizabeth S Schmerling Endowed Scholarship at the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts at Washington University in St Louis.