Congratulations to the 2023 Thesis Award Recipients
Nirali Prajapati, Lydia Simpson, and Akila Udage 

July 2023

The IESNYC Thesis Awards and associated scholarships provide invaluable support to young professionals and students, empowering them to actively participate in the advancement of lighting design and research. The recognition bestowed upon Nirali Prajapati, Lydia D. Simpson, and Akila Udage highlights their exceptional contributions, inspiring the lighting community and paving the way for future innovations in the field.

Nirali Prajapati, a graduate with a Bachelors of Architecture in 2017, embarked on a journey in architecture and interior design, where she soon realized the importance of lighting in her projects. This realization led her to pursue a master's degree in lighting at the New York School of Interior Design. Nirali's passion for lighting has grown exponentially, and she now aspires to establish herself solely as a dedicated lighting designer, eager to make her mark in the field.

Nirali's thesis, titled "Dormitory Project: Buchanan Towers," dives into the exploration of lighting design approaches for a dormitory situated adjacent to a 170-acre arboretum at a high altitude. Prajapati's research focuses on creating environmentally conscious lighting solutions by complying with recommended light levels, energy codes, and promoting dark sky-friendly lighting practices. By addressing the unique challenges posed by the dormitory's location, Prajapati seeks to enhance the student living experience while fostering sustainability and harmony with the natural surroundings.

She expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "Receiving recognition for our student work through awards and scholarships significantly aids our transition into the professional world. The Thesis Award opens up opportunities for discussions and engagements with industry professionals. This project has reinforced how much more there is to learn, and I am eagerly looking forward to what the future holds."

Lydia Simpson is a recent graduate of the Parsons School of Design MFA Lighting Design program. She received a BFA in Design and Technology for Theater from the University of North Georgia and worked as a Lighting Designer in Atlanta before attending Parsons. Lydia combines her lifelong love for lighting, color, art, and healthcare to inspire and grow her lighting practice and commitment to creating healthy lighting solutions. Lydia has recently joined the Lighting Design team at Mazzetti.

Lydia's thesis, titled "Shining a Light on Migraines: The Effects of Spectral Power Distribution on Migraine-Related Photophobia," delves into the profound impact of lighting on individuals suffering from migraines. Simpson's research investigates the relationship between spectral power distribution (SPD) and migraine-related photophobia, aiming to identify lighting solutions that can alleviate discomfort and enhance the well-being of migraine sufferers. Through meticulous experimentation and analysis, Simpson explores various colors and spectrums to determine the most comfortable lighting conditions for individuals with migraines.

Simpson conveyed her gratitude, saying, "This award feels like a significant boost to my career. It is an honor to share my research and contribute to shaping how lighting can impact our health. I am proud of myself for accomplishing what I set out to do and being recognized for it on a broader scale than I expected."

Akila Udage is a researcher and engineer specializing in additive manufacturing optics for light fixtures. He holds a Ph.D. from the Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), where his research focused on advancing 3D printing technology for antennas, thermal components, and electrical systems in solid-state lighting (SSL) luminaires. With an M.S. in Lighting from RPI and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Dr. Udage has a solid academic background. He also brings practical experience as a project engineer and electrical engineering manager at the Port of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Dr. Akila Udage currently holds the position of a 3D printing process engineer at Align Technology, actively contributing to cutting-edge developments in additive manufacturing and optics.

Akilas thesis, titled "Design Analysis of 3D Printed Internal Cavity Lens for Lighting Applications," showcases the potential of additive manufacturing in revolutionizing the field of architectural lighting. Udage's innovative research revolves around the design and manufacturing of internal-cavity flat optics for LED lighting systems using 3D printing technology. By harnessing the capabilities of additive manufacturing, Udage demonstrates the feasibility of creating intricate and customized lighting components that can optimize efficiency, improve performance, and expand design possibilities in architectural lighting.

As the third deserving recipient, Udage acknowledged the significance of the IESNYC Thesis Award, stating, "Being a recipient of the IESNYC Thesis Award is an immense honor, and I am incredibly grateful for this recognition. It validates my research, dedication, and contributions to the field of architectural lighting."

ABOUT THE IESNYC THESIS Awards
The IESNYC Thesis Awards is an annual monetary award given to students selected by their professors for demonstrating excellence in lighting design and/or research, and represent the intellectual insight, rigor, and quality standards as set forth by their respective school departments and each student’s thesis committee. Recipients must be a degree candidate in a graduate-level lighting program at the New York School of Interior Design (NYSID), Parsons School of Design at the New School, or Lighting Research Center (LRC), Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) School of Architecture. Recipients have the opportunity to present their thesis projects to the New York City lighting community at a special presentation event and eligible for consideration to be sent to the IES Annual Conference and present their work.

*Nominations are submitted by each school’s program director