Architect of Liberty

“Architect of Liberty.” This inscription beneath the statue of Thomas Jefferson at the entrance of Virginia’s State Capitol (which he designed) speaks of the power of the collective voice. Although only one architect, Mr. Jefferson, has served as President of the United States, the architects of the 19th and early 20th centuries were members of high councils of decision-makers. They created not just buildings, but organizations and institutions … and … they associated with presidents. Members of our profession served as trusted advisors to leaders of our country, and the AIA was the ‘go-to’ organization for matters of civic development and cultural engagement. We shaped the future of the “built environment” centuries before that phrase was ever coined.

Once again, that collective voice of strength and solidarity has spoken – repeatedly – in recent weeks and months. All architects among us collectively shrieked as we learned of the planned abominable ballroom addition to the White House. We later gasped in audible and palpable unison as we heard that the East Wing of the “People’s House” had been summarily demolished.

Next month, the leadership tenure of AIA Interim EVP/CEO Stephen Ayers, FAIA will come to a close. As the former Architect of the Capitol, Stephen was the perfect leader of our organization at the perfect moment. Through his gained professional wisdom and considerable personal integrity, he represented the best interests of the members of American Institute of Architects – and the shared willpower of our entire profession – to our nation’s government. Thank you, Stephen!

Political will, as well as public policy, are the most powerful forces shaping the built environment today and tomorrow, underscoring the importance of our continuing to be involved. May the collective voice of the AIA never waver or wane, falter or fade!

Photo Credit: Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA