College of Fellows Nominating Committee
Being elected to the AIA’s College of Fellows represents the highest individual honor bestowed by the Institute upon its members, second only to the Institute’s Gold Medal. Fellowship elevation signifies recognition for an exemplary career with a broad impact on the architectural profession.
Colorado has been fortunate since 1886 to witness 104 of our members elevated to Fellowship. In 2023, three new fellows were named from Colorado – Ron Abo, FAIA, Victor Olgyay, FAIA, and Brad Tomecek, FAIA. Additionally, several more were nominated by AIA Colorado for recognition in 2024.
Commencing in January, the twelve-member AIA Colorado / College of Fellows Nominating Committee will convene to strategize on ensuring recognition for our members and assisting those nominated for Fellowship. The committee will review past submissions, provide assistance, identify individuals who haven’t submitted before, and encourage their nomination. Our objective is to identify nominees with the highest likelihood of advancing to Fellowship and present them to the AIA Colorado Board for the ratification of their nomination to the national AIA.
For those interested, it’s essential to note that elevation to Fellowship not only acknowledges an architect’s individual achievements but also showcases architects who have made significant contributions to architecture and society before the public and the profession. Contributions can span design, preservation, planning, practice management, service to the profession through the AIA or other organizations, as well as service to society or humanity – or a combination of these categories. The impact of these efforts typically extends well beyond local boundaries, influencing regions or even the nation.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the College of Fellows or our local Committee’s process or schedule, please feel free to e-mail me at phil@gerou.net or contact the AIA Colorado office at 303.446.2266.
— Phil Gerou, FAIA
2024 AIA Denver / College of Fellows Nominating Committee
Fellows