Congratulations are in order for AIA Pittsburgh’s Bill Bates and Jeff Murray, who have both been selected to be inducted into the College of Fellows and will be honored at an investiture ceremony at the 2016 National AIA Convention. The Fellowship program was developed to elevate those architects who have made a significant contribution to architecture and society and who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession. Election to fellowship not only recognizes the achievements of architects as individuals, but also their significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level.
Bill Bates, FAIA of Eat n’ Park Hospitality Group, Inc. has been an active member in the AIA for decades, first serving a leadership role as AIA Pittsburgh’s chapter president in 1988. He then went on to serve (twice) as president of AIA Pennsylvania and in 2014 he was elected as one of two 2015-2016 Vice Presidents of AIA National.
Chip Desmone, AIA sits on the AIA National Strategic Council and has worked closely with Bates at the national level. Of that experience, Desmone recalls that “Bill provided strong, steady leadership during a time of incredible change at AIA headquarters. He helped guide the process and shepherd in the new rules and laws. His care and experience really shone through and helped foster a smooth transition.”
Jeff Murray, FAIA of CH2M IDC Architects has also been an active member of the AIA and is currently AIA Pittsburgh’s First Vice President. He has worked tirelessly throughout his career to advance the profession by way of advancing the standards of architectural education and practice.
“Jeff is one of those architects you hope you get to work with during your career,” says AIA Pittsburgh chapter president Michael McDonnell, AIA. “You expect someone in his position to have exceptional experience and knowledge, what is often a surprise is how Jeff effortlessly sidesteps the traps of convention to bring new and interesting perspective to a conversation. I have seen this repeatedly in my work with Jeff on the AIA Pittsburgh Board of Directors – Jeff challenges each of us to think about the current state of the profession and how our decisions can bend the curve toward a more engaged and successful future, especially as it relates to the experience of emerging professionals in our region. Jeff represents the best in our profession and deserves the recognition that comes with acceptance into the College of Fellows.”
Check out all of this year’s 149 Fellows.