WHEREAS, The American Institute of Architects Philadelphia (“AIA”) was founded in 1869 by the honorable Thomas Ustick Walter, who served as Architect of the U.S. Capitol and designed its dome and north and south wings; and
WHEREAS, AIA Philadelphia is one of the first and oldest AIA chapters in the nation, comprised of 1800 architects, 250 architecture firm members, and 175 allied firm members; and
WHEREAS, AIA takes pride in its members’ exceptional designs found around the world, as well as the lasting community impact on the greater Philadelphia region; and
WHEREAS, AIA Philadelphia’s mission is to support the architectural community to elevate design expertise, advance knowledge, advocate for the profession, and promote the value of Architecture; and
WHEREAS, The association values diversity and inclusion, and believes in fostering a growing population of diverse, culturally competent, resilient and knowledge based design professionals; and
WHEREAS, AIA also prioritizes sustainability and preservation and believes in positioning the AIA and its members as the leading source for credible, reliable and accessible information on sustainable design practice. AIA believes that the preservation of historic buildings and the greater urban fabric are fundamental precepts of sustainability through their positive impact on the built and natural environments; and
WHEREAS, AIA believes that the skills and resources of their profession should always serve the greater needs of the general public. Affordable housing, transit equity, accessibility and universal design, beautiful public open spaces and parks, community-based planning, and walkable pedestrian-friendly cities are necessities for everyone; and
WHEREAS, They believe in advocating for legislation and policy that advance the architect’s role in the built environment; to promote design solutions that directly impact their most compelling challenges; and to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public; and
WHEREAS, AIA believes that design excellence encompasses more than aesthetic and functional beauty. Design is also a leadership and facilitation skill that helps their clients and communities creatively address real world needs for the benefit of all; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it does hereby recognize the American Institute of Architects Philadelphia on the occasion of its 150th Anniversary.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of the American Institute of Architects Philadelphia as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.
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