Pressroom

Contact: Scott Frank
202-626-7467
sfrank@aia.org

For immediate release:
Washington, D.C. – February 24, 2010 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) commends  President Obama's nomination of Stephen Ayers, AIA, to become the next Architect of the Capitol. Ayers was appointed to lead the office on an interim basis following the retirement of Alan Hantman, FAIA, who held the position previously.

"President Obama nominated the right person to serve in this important position, and not a moment too soon," said Christine W. McEntee, Executive Vice President/CEO of the AIA. "Mr. Ayers has shown leadership, foresight, and a steady hand as he led the Architect of the Capitol’s office for the last three years. Mr Ayers has addressed many goals for the office in an exemplary manner. However, there are still urgent needs facing the Capitol complex, from reducing its carbon footprint to renovating buildings in need of repair, and the Office of the Architect of the Capitol will benefit from Mr. Ayers’ capable leadership," added McEntee.

The AIA urges the Senate Rules Committee as well as the full Senate to confirm Mr. Ayers quickly to ensure that the U.S. Capitol remains a living vibrant symbol of our nation’s democracy.

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