Justin Chappell Wins ACE Architecture Competition

Congratulations to junior Justin Chappell for his extraordinary achievement in winning 1st place in the ACE Mentor Program for Architectural Construction and Engineering! 

Justin took part in the 15-week mentoring program, balancing school, sports, and meeting virtually with his student group three times a week to work on their winning entry. Dedicated to his team, Justin balanced his time effectively by creatively managing his meeting schedule. But, he says, “It was tough at times, and I sometimes still had to forego other things to focus on my project.”

Their project was a full-scale presentation of the re-imagination of the historic Hudson building in Detroit. The three-person group worked diligently, overcoming design challenges such as underground parking distribution of building space, providing affordable housing, and HAVA/plumbing considerations. Justin points out that they made decisions by allowing each group member the opportunity to vet their ideas to the group for discussion, determining direction, and then distributing the scope of work. 

With nine groups competing, they were recognized as the 1st Place winners at the ACE Southeast Michigan Student Banquet for aspiring high school architects and engineers in Oakland County.  

 Justin’s proud parents, Erica and John, shared, “As Justin’s parents, we are particularly proud of how he grew as a leader and his determination/focus during his ACE participation. ACE was a virtual program which took place over the entire school year. Communicating with group members that you have NEVER met in person, two to three times a week after school for 2 hours or more, working on such a high level as to create/re-imagine a project like the iconic Hudson Building, and then win 1st prize was more than impressive!“

Justin is an extraordinary and impressive young man who garners much praise from Brother Rice faculty and staff. On hearing the ACE news, Director of Academic Success and Equity Mrs. Jackie Little-Gilmore shared, “Justin’s achievement is simply phenomenal! I could not be more proud of him, and I know that more great accomplishments are in his future!” That is a widely-shared sentiment and we look forward to seeing what comes next during his senior year and beyond. One thing is certain, Justin has a bright future ahead. His plans include pursuing a career in Architecture, and he aspires to start his own firm someday.