Chapter Award – AIA Central Valley
The jury noted how well this chapter manages programs and events and how their approaches and inclusions of the Emerging Professional in several programs is top notch. All jurors commented on how it would be wonderful if all chapters could implement even a portion of what the AIA Central Valley is able to do. From example programs such as the Emerging Professionals Speed Mentor Match, to the documents and resources provided to ensure successful ARE examinations, this chapter is dedicated to the up-and-coming architect.
Firm Award – Fergus Garber Young
“They do such a great job as a small firm,” one juror commented. The jury unanimously considered their story a great example for other small firms to implement the support needed for young architects to thrive. This Santa Clara firm is known for their participation in Emerging Professional events. In addition, this firm provides mentorship both within and outside of their practice, and have planned ARE study sessions.
Educator Award – Mitra Kanaani, AIA
There was a unanimous decision to award Mitra the Educator Award. One juror commented how overwhelmed they were in the amount of text in her nomination. She has done, and continues to do so much. One juror commented, “We had the option of ‘Yes,’ ‘No,’ or ‘Maybe,’ but I wanted to give her a vote of ‘wow.’” She promotes growth and excitement not only through architecture academia, but on a local, state, national and international level as well.
Associate Award – Laura Wood, Assoc. AIA
Laura is the current Central Valley Associate Director, who has created programs such as the IDP Tours. In the firm’s letter of support to the jury, they noted her as providing “design, technology and innovation leadership.” Wood also contributes outside of the profession, bringing her passion for design into the community and public eye by assisting the Sacramento Zoo create sustainable visions for the future, as well as collaborating with HackerLab.
Young Architect Award – Lo Yu-Ngok, AIA
Lo’s portfolio stood out not only because of the body of work it portrayed, but also the deep level of thought and consideration that went into the submission. He was the director the AIA Long Beach/South Bay Chapter, an active participant in the Not Licensed Yet (notLy) program, and most recently conducted a seminar on the ARE topic “Building Design and Construction System.” He has written articles and has been nominated to be the 2016 National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) magazine. The jury found his body of work, his passion and his enthusiasm inspiring.
