At the end of each year, AIA Pittsburgh brings together members of the architectural community to celebrate the holidays, welcome the incoming Chapter president, and congratulate the young professionals who have successfully completed the A.R.E. to become registered architects. This year, the President’s Holiday Party was held at the award-winning office of NEXT Architecture and sponsored by SOTA Construction Services, Inc. 2014 president Jen Bee, AIA ‘crowned’ 2015 president Alan Schlossberg, AIA with the ceremonial passing of the wig. Additionally, two awards were presented. First, the AIA Pittsburgh President’s Award – given to someone who personifies the ‘citizen architect’ – was presented to Katie Walsh, AIA, who continuously gives back within her firm and community. She was the 2014 chair of YAF, spearheaded the Women in Design organization, and works with the ACE Mentor program, among a number of other volunteer positions, working towards creating a better profession and future. Next, Joanna Beres, Assoc. AIA presented Sean Sheffler, AIA with the AIA Pennsylvania Emerging Professional Award for his dedication to education and outreach within the profession. (Have you read his blog?) Check out all of the AIA PA Award winners. A big welcome was also extended to the 2015 Board of Directors and YAF officers. Congratulations to the fourteen new architects and both Katie and Sean for all of your hard work!
The 2014 RAs are:
Zach Appman, AIA
Caryn Bevins, AIA
Jenny Budka
Martin Busser
Brian Bystone
Mindy Colblentz
Brian Cox
Brian DiPietro, AIA
Nicole Graycar, AIA
Greg Hall
Janelle Kemerer
Matthew Manzo
Natalie Sheely, AIA
Katie Walsh, AIA