September 18, 2017
Reading Time: 3 minutesJerry Eben, FAIA has been speaking to children about architecture for over 30 years now, estimating that he has reached over 10 thousand children with valuable information about our profession. Recently, he has started teaming up with fellow architect Jose Gennaro, AIA to provide bi-lingual programs, especially in schools with large Spanish speaking/ ESL populations.
Jose made his first presentation about 12 years ago when a teacher friend asked him to present at her Perth Amboy school career day. Many of his early programs were geared toward showing young immigrant students what opportunities for success are attainable, with focus and commitment.
The majority of their partnered sessions are requested in the spring by schools that feature career discussions, but they try and respond to all requests, year-round. They travel most anywhere that they are asked, but most often find themselves in Harrison, Newark, Perth Amboy and the surrounds. If they are not available to attend themselves, will seek out a willing AIA colleague from the school’s local community.
Jose likes sharing his trade best with 3rd-5th graders, while Jerry finds 6th-8th grade most rewarding, but they have presented to all ages, K-12! Most presentations are about 20-30 minutes, with renderings, perspectives, blueprints and photographs circulating around the room.
AIA Newark and Suburban has also provided giveaway items, such as pencils, with the section name embossed on the side.
The kids especially love to check out traditional drafting tools and hear about the transition from drawing by hand to CAD.
Jerry and Jose are cultivating your next generation of educated clients!
By Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, AIA, AIA NJ Advocacy Consultant | Posted in AIA-NJ News, Architecture in NJ, Members & the Community | Tagged: #AIAArchitectsInSchools, #JerryEbenFAIA, #JoseGennaroAIA, #K-12 | Comments (1)
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Kudos to both Jerry and Jose! Thank you for donating your time and knowledge to all ages.