NEW YORK, NY – November 2026 – The Illuminating Engineering Society of New York City (IESNYC) is inviting eligible graduate students to apply for its 2027 Merit Scholarship, an annual award dedicated to supporting emerging talent and advancing education in the field of architectural lighting.
Zachary Pearson, President of IESNYC (Fisher Marantz Stone), underscored the importance of investing in education: “Lighting brings together technical knowledge, creative thinking, and a commitment to solving real-world challenges. Education gives emerging professionals the foundation to approach these challenges with curiosity, skill, and fresh perspectives. That’s why investing in students and their education is so important to IESNYC and to the future of our profession.”
With a scholarship valued at $25,000, the program reflects IESNYC’s ongoing commitment to lighting education and the development of future leaders in the profession. The award may be presented to one recipient or divided equally between two candidates, at the discretion of the scholarship review panel.
Mike Barr, IESNYC Board Member and Scholarship Committee Chair (Lutron Electronics Co. Inc.), highlighted the importance of investing in emerging talent: “Supporting the next generation of lighting professionals is essential to the continued growth of our industry. The IESNYC Merit Scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate academic achievement, a genuine passion for lighting, and a commitment to the profession. We encourage eligible students to apply and are proud to celebrate the talent and dedication of students entering the field.”
The Merit Scholarship is open to first-year, full-time graduate students pursuing a degree in architectural lighting at an accredited college or university in New York State. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent U.S. residents, or holders of a U.S. F-1 student visa.
The application deadline is January 1, 2027. For eligibility details, application requirements, and submission information, visit iesnyc.org/Scholarship.
About the IESNYC
IESNYC (www.iesnyc.org) is the New York City Section of the Illuminating Engineering Society.
The IESNYC is a volunteer professional membership organization whose members share a mutual appreciation for and fascination with all things lighting. They are lighting designers, architects, engineers, consultants, lighting manufacturers, lighting representatives, electrical distributors, and allied professionals. IESNYC members are dedicated to promoting the art and science of illumination engineering to their members, professionals, the lighting industry, and the public through inspiring events, informative programs and educational series, social outreach, and networking opportunities.