HonoRING ICONIC ARCHITECT Paul R. Williams

From left are Karen Hudson, Lori Hyland, Nnenna Freelon, Gabrielle Bullock, and Paul Hudson. (Los Angeles Sentinel)

On Wednesday, October 11, in the Crystal Ballroom of the landmark Beverly Hills Hotel, more than 250 guests gathered to celebrate the legacy of legendary architect Paul R. Williams, FAIA, and the official launch of the Paul R. Williams Scholarship & Education Fund.

Karen E. Hudson, the Fund’s executive director and her grandfather Paul R. Williams’ longtime biographer, was joined by her brother, Paul C. Hudson, to present the first-ever Paul R. Williams Awards.

Real estate expert and architectural historian Jeff Hyland was honored with “The Advocate” Award posthumously for his unwavering efforts to preserve historic Los Angeles residences. Lori Hyland, chairman of Hilton & Hyland, accepted the award on her late husband’s behalf.

The evening’s theme, “Strollin’ on the Avenue,” celebrated Los Angeles’ historic Central Avenue, which served as the cultural, social, and commercial hub of the city’s Black community from the 1920s through the 1950s.

The event was hosted in partnership with The Beverly Hills Hotel, for which Mr. Williams completed a major renovation beginning in the late 1940s, including the iconic signage and design elements of enduring appeal.

Proceeds will support the Paul R. Williams Scholarship and Education Fund, launched earlier this year to inspire, support, and celebrate young people pursuing careers in architecture. The programs are scheduled to begin for the 2024-25 school year.

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