As part of a commitment to increasing the number of architects running for political office or serving on appointed boards/commissions, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) passed a resolution honoring and supporting “citizen architects.” At this year’s AIA national legislative Grassroots Conference there will be a Citizen Architect panel focusing on the importance of civic engagement for the architecture profession. A recently completed AIA survey revealed that there are at least 850 architects – more than one percent of total membership – who are serving in an elected or appointed role.

Examples of the level of engagement:

• 6 mayors
• 36 environmental board members
• 48 Community Development commissioners
• 51 Building Codes Board members
• 53 city council members
• 54 zoning board members
• 84 architectural design review board members
• 92 Historic Preservation commissioners
• 158 planning commissioners

“The results of the survey, and the enthusiastic outreach from membership concerning this initiative, is helping the AIA pinpoint the target audience for programs that will give architects tools in their public lives and provide tools to help those who have not yet made that step, but are interested in getting more engaged with their community,” said AIA director, Local Relations, Brooks Rainwater.

A Citizen Architect directory is currently being developed and there will be a Citizen Architect Exchange at the AIA National Convention and Design Exposition in San Francisco. Click here for more information on AIA Local Relations.