The AIA New Jersey Michael Graves Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest and most prestigious honor that AIA New Jersey can bestow on an individual. It is in recognition of a significant body of work of lasting influence on the theory and practice of architecture.
Established In 2004
AIA New Jersey Chapter and Region has a long tradition of honoring AIA Members for their outstanding achievements in support of the profession of architecture and The American Institute of Architects. In 2004 AIA-New Jersey President Robert Cozzarelli, AIA and Regional Director Martin Santini, FAIA sought to establish a new award that would acknowledge lifetime achievement for an architect who throughout his or her career has continually exemplified both excellence and significant contributions to the field. Further, President Cozzarelli and Director Santini believed it was most appropriate for AIA New Jersey Chapter and Region to acknowledge, with respect, the accomplishments of AIA Gold Medal recipient and internationally recognized architect Michael Graves along with future outstanding leaders of the profession. This award is presented as the most prestigious award bestowed by AIA New Jersey Chapter and Region, and therefore is awarded with great deliberation and not necessarily on an annual basis. This award will not have a commercial sponsor; it is recognition totally by and from one’s peers. Therefore, let it be known that The AIA New Jersey Lifetime Achievement Award will bear the name of its first recipient, Michael Graves, FAIA.