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140th AIA National Convention in Boston Emphasizes Sustainability, Affordable Housing, Urban Security and Diversity
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For Immediate Release |
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Washington, D.C., May 21,
2008 — The American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2008 National
Convention and Design Exposition concluded with a keynote
presentation by Ambassador Andrew Young on the importance of
Whitney M. Young Jr.’s speech in 1968 regarding the need for
greater diversity in the profession. Other keynote presentations
included Habitat for Humanity founder, Millard Fuller, challenging
architects to address affordable housing issues, and Thomas Vonier,
FAIA, founding member of the International Center for Urban
Security, moderating a panel that examined issues of urban security
and the built environment from geopolitical, tactical, and
humanitarian points of view.
The convention attracted 23,950 registrants, and 852 exhibitors. In
order to maintain a positive experience for attendees, the AIA made
a concerted effort to keep the show size manageable and not
overwhelming.
“The theme of ‘We the People’ was chosen to showcase
the power of architecture on behalf of all people. I was encouraged
to see that it was warmly received and embraced by all speakers and
attendees,” said AIA President, Marshall Purnell, FAIA.
“The tone was set with Millard Fuller’s excellent speech
outlining the responsibility that architects have to address one of
the most basic needs – shelter. His point was that architects
have the opportunity to bring the dignity and worth of the
profession to the people who need it most, and it was an ideal
representation of our theme.”
For additional news and insight on the AIA 2008 National Convention
and Design Expo, visit http://www.aia.org/aiarchitect/thisweek08/0516/0516n_greetings.cfm.
The AIA 2009 National Convention and Design Expo themed “The
Power of Diversity: Practice in a Complex World” will be held
April 30 – May 2, 2009, in San Francisco. For more information
about next year’s exhibition contact AIA Infocentral at
1.800.242.3837.
About The American Institute of
Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects
have worked with each other and their communities to create more
valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and
cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and
techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the
leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address
climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design.
Visit www.aia.org/walkthewalk.
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