December 13, 2024

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Reflecting on a Year of Accomplishment and Gratitude

by Brian W. Penschow, AIA

As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve shared over the past year as members of AIA New Jersey. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your president, and as I think about all we’ve accomplished together, I am filled with gratitude for the trust and support you have shown me throughout this year.

This year has been nothing short of remarkable. Together, we have celebrated milestones, tackled challenges, and forged new paths for our profession. Each achievement is a testament to the collective passion and dedication that defines AIA New Jersey. It’s a reflection of who we are—not just as architects, but as advocates, innovators, and leaders in our communities.

One of the highlights of the year has been celebrating design excellence within our ranks. Our members continue to push the boundaries of creativity and technical expertise, producing work that not only inspires but also impacts lives. These achievements remind us that architecture is not just about buildings; it’s about creating spaces that connect people and shape their experiences. It has been inspiring to see our community recognize and celebrate these outstanding contributions to our field.

Equally rewarding has been the opportunity to acknowledge the individuals and firms that exemplify service and leadership. These honorees have made meaningful contributions to the architectural profession and to the communities they serve. Their dedication goes beyond design; it’s about mentoring, advocating, and giving back. As we look to the future, their example sets a high standard for what it means to be an architect in today’s world.

Our commitment to advocacy has remained steadfast this year. From addressing critical issues like unlicensed practice to protecting the designation AIA from dilution, we have worked tirelessly to uphold the integrity of our profession. On the latter front, we actively opposed the creation of new membership categories that could weaken the significance of our professional title. Safeguarding the value of the AIA designation ensures that it continues to reflect the highest standards of architectural practice and achievement.

Another significant milestone was the successful passage of the self-certification pilot program and third-party building inspection legislation into law. These initiatives represent a major step forward in streamlining the permitting process, reducing delays, and empowering architects to take a more active role in advancing their projects. This progress would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of our membership, legislative partners, and other stakeholders.

Innovation has also been a cornerstone of our efforts. As the world continues to change at an unprecedented pace, we have embraced emerging technologies and new ways of thinking.

Whether exploring artificial intelligence or reimagining how we approach sustainability, our profession is evolving, and we are leading the charge. These advancements are not just about staying relevant; they are about staying ahead and shaping the future of our industry.

Professional development has been another area of focus this year. Through conferences, workshops, and collaborative events, we have created opportunities for members to learn, grow, and connect. These gatherings have reminded us of the power of community—the way sharing ideas and experiences can elevate us all. It has been gratifying to see the energy and enthusiasm that members bring to these initiatives, proving once again that AIA New Jersey is a vibrant and engaged network of professionals.

One of the most transformative accomplishments during my presidency has been the creation of the AIA-NJ Strategic Plan for 2025-2028. Crafted with the expert guidance of “Three Aspens” and Helene Combs Dreiling, this plan lays the foundation for our organization’s future. It focuses on fostering member engagement, strengthening advocacy, and advancing architectural excellence across the state. This roadmap will guide AIA New Jersey for the next three years, ensuring that our efforts align with the evolving needs of our members and the communities we serve.

Our engagement with the broader community has also been a source of pride. From mentoring students to participating in educational programs, our members have shown a commitment to inspiring the next generation. These efforts are about more than promoting architecture; they are about fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in young minds. By investing in the future, we ensure that our profession continues to thrive for years to come.

As I prepare to pass the torch to our incoming leadership, I am confident that the foundation we’ve built this year will serve as a springboard for even greater achievements. The challenges we face as architects are significant, but so are the opportunities. With creativity, resilience, and a shared commitment to excellence, there is no limit to what we can accomplish together.

On a personal note, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each of you. Serving as your president has been a humbling and rewarding experience. Your trust, collaboration, and passion for architecture have been a constant source of inspiration. This role has given me the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible impact our profession has on people’s lives, and for that, I am profoundly thankful.

As we move into 2025, I encourage all of you to continue engaging with AIA New Jersey.

Whether through advocacy, education, or community service, your participation strengthens our organization and amplifies our impact. Together, we can continue to elevate architecture, support one another, and leave a lasting legacy for the generations to come.

Thank you for an unforgettable year. Here’s to a future filled with even greater possibilities.

Humble regards,

Brian W. Penschow, AIA, NCARB
2024 President, AIA New Jersey

 

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AIA New Jersey Mission Statement

AIA New Jersey Supports its Members and Promotes the Public’s Understanding of Architecture through Advocacy, Education, and Service.

Founded in 1857, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through a dynamic network of more than 250 chapters and more than 95,000 member architects and design professionals, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public well-being. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and businesses. It also engages civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world. AIA New Jersey, a chapter AIA, has been the voice of the architectural profession in the Garden State since 1900. Based in Trenton, AIA New Jersey has over 2,000 members across six sections. For more information, please visit http://www.aia-nj.org

By Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, AIA, AIA NJ Advocacy Consultant | Posted in AIA Jersey Shore, AIA-NJ News | Tagged: #2024, #aianjarchitects, #AIANJPresidentsMessage, #architects, #brianwilliampenschowaia, #Gratitude, #NJArchitects, BrianWPenschowAIA | Comments (0)