highest award for public architecture: curtis fentress was honored in 2010 by the american institute of architects aia awards website with the highest award for public architecture, the thomas jefferson award. the jefferson award recognizes fentress for "a portfolio of accomplishments that evidences great depth while making a significant contribution to the quality of public architecture." in the last 18 years since the jefferson award was first bestowed, only seven architects have been recognized in the 'private-sector architect' category.