Joel Polsky Academic Achievement Award
Scholarship Sponsored by American Society of Interior Designers
Joel Polsky Prize — $5,000
Application period: February 15 to April 15, 2026
Overview
The Joel Polsky Prize is awarded annually to honor exceptional scholarly work in interior design communicated through print or digital media. The prize recognizes contributions that serve the needs of the public, design professionals, and students, and it targets topics such as educational research, behavioral science, business practice, the design process, theory, or related technical areas. Submissions may take a variety of forms, including but not limited to books, white papers, blog series, and videos. This award is made possible by the Polsky Fund.
Who should apply
Scholars, practitioners, educators, and communicators whose published or produced work advances understanding in interior design and addresses audiences listed above are encouraged to submit.
Application requirements
Please provide all of the following items with your submission:
- A description of the publication or visual communication (maximum 250 words)
- A copy of the publication or the visual communication
- A statement outlining the applicant’s leadership role in the work
- A letter of recommendation
- A biographical statement
- A headshot
For questions about the application process, contact the program office before the deadline.