On April 23, the American Academy in Rome announced the winners of its coveted Rome Prize. The awardees in visual arts included three Cooper School of Art alumni: Firelei Báez, a 2004 graduate; Eric Mack, from the class of 2010; and William Villalongo, a 1999 graduate who is also an associate professor in the School of Art. Báez and Mack were awarded the Phillip Guston Rome Prize; Villalongo received the Jules Guerin/Harold M.English Rome Prize. Thirty-five artists and scholars were chosen from 874 applications. According to the academy, this year's winners represent one of the most diverse groups ever awarded the prize, all of whom will be provided with a stipend, room and board, and studio space to conduct advanced independent work. 

The awards ceremony can be viewed here.