by Catherine A. McNeel, Assoc. AIA
AIAS Vice President
Along with the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the AIA and the 100th anniversary of the AIA Gold Medal, there has been a considerable amount of looking back and looking forward among AIA members. We at the American Institute of Architecture Students understand the pride you feel. In 2006, we celebrated 50 years of students of architecture joining together to make a difference in how the profession grows to meet the future.
The National Association of Students of Architecture (NASA) adopted its first constitution in 1956 with three fundamental goals:
• Assist with bringing about a deeper understanding between the professional architect and the architecture student
• Provide channels for the interchange of ideas among students, schools, and countries
• Attempt to bring about a better understanding of architecture and the profession by the potential architecture student and the general public.
There have been—and still are—many benefits to our close association with the AIA, as well as the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture, National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, National Architectural Accrediting Board, and the many other partners and sponsors we look to for inspiration and mentorship.
In fact, until 1984, we were a part of the AIA—the Association of Student Chapters of the AIA. That year, we incorporated as the independent organization we are today.
We still have a very close relationship with the AIA—including a seat on the AIA Board of Directors. Our members will continue to strive to live up to the professional standards set by those who came before, including many who are now AIA members.
In that spirit of continuity, if you would like to pause to think back on your time in school—perhaps your time as a NASA, ASC/AIA, or AIAS member yourself—we would love to hear your reminiscences.
What do you think?
Comments (1)
When I became a member of NASA in 1956, my 4th year at the University of Arkansas, I did not realize it was a new organization--and that I was present at its birth. During my fifth year, my bride, Darlene, and I drove to Washington DC (November 1957) to attend a NASA convention at the Octagon, where on the top floor we students sat at the feet of Phillip Johnson as he attempted to inspire us.
During the 1990s, when I was on the Board of Directors of the AIA, my good friend and fellow Board Member, Bill Pellham from Delaware, told me he was there, too.
I wonder if there are others in practice today who would admit to being there at that time. If so, I would love to hear from you.
Posted by Vernon Reed, FAIA | March 16, 2007 4:08 PM
Posted on March 16, 2007 16:08