Gaines B. Hall, FAIA

A practicing architect for 40 years, I have served for the last 17 as the managing principal of Kirkegaard Associates, a Chicago firm specializing in architectural acoustics. In orchestrating design collaborations with hundreds of architects for large and small projects, I have developed a unique understanding of the needs, means, and capabilities of architectural practices of all types.

I understand the demands of leadership, having led various organizations within and outside the AIA. Over the years I have been granted the opportunity to serve in leadership positions at every level of the Institute and hold office within three different regions. I believe the time has come to share the knowledge gained from extraordinarily broad AIA service.

Initiating a major course correction for the AIA is not my intent; but I am offering a seasoned ability to help implement some important initiatives now under way. I knew Knowledge Communities when they were Professional Development Committees, and I want desperately to make them work to our membership’s greatest advantage. The education of architects and future clients is of immeasurable importance to the future of the AIA and the profession. Our regained financial footing will allow us to implement some of the needed mission-critical tasks. Working closely with the Board and the staff to realize those imperatives will be my daily operational mode.

Nothing can speak louder than the displayed confidence that we know what we are doing and where we are going. All of us must demonstrate a combined commitment to continue the course necessary to warrant that confidence—from every member, those who are not yet members, and those we serve in society.

AIA national

• Illinois Regional Director, 1995–1998
• Vice President, 1983–1984
• Commissioner, Design Committee, 1983–1984
• National Convention Chair, 1982–1983
• Gulf States Regional Director, 1978–1981
• Architectural Accreditation Teams, 1980–1982, 1984
• Chair, Education and Professional Development Commission, 1980–1981
• Commissioner, Historic Resources, Scholarship, Architecture for Arts & Recreation committees, 1979–1981

AIA region, state, local

• AIA Illinois Board of Directors, 1994–1998
• President, Gulf States Region, 1980–1981
• President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Alabama Council, 1973–1976
• Director, AIA Chicago, 2003–2005
• President, AIA Chicago Foundation, 2001
• Trustee, AIA Chicago Foundation, 1995–2002
• AIA Chicago Board of Directors, 1994–1998
• AIA Chicago National Convention Committee, 1991–1993
• Vice President, Secretary, Director, Montgomery Chapter 1972–1975

Community service

• President, Bi-Racial Study Group
• Chair, Downtown Action Committee
• Colonel, U.S.Army Reserve, Retired
• Guest lecturer: Auburn University, University of Illinois, and Southern Illinois University

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