FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 8, 2019
CONTACT: Kathleen Alcorn
217-522-2309 extension 5
SPRINGFIELD…The Illinois Council of the American Institute of Architects will conduct a search for a new association leader for the first time in nearly two decades as it bids a fond farewell to their longtime Executive Vice President. Mike Waldinger, Honorary AIA, announced his upcoming departure from AIA Illinois after 18 years at the helm of the organization.
“The architecture profession has had a tireless champion whose passion and dedication led us to unprecedented achievements in advocacy, outreach and leadership,” said President Terence Moeller, AIA. “Mike is highly regarded across the country and his reputation has given Illinois architects a stronger voice as a result.”
During his tenure, Waldinger has authored and negotiated laws on architecture practice, project delivery, building codes and sustainability; built an emergency response network of architects, engineers who were deployed to help communities recover from natural disasters; launched a model leadership development institute; and increased visibility of architects through lobby days, industry partnerships and local awards programs.
“Working for AIA Illinois has been the adventure of a lifetime. The history of architecture here is legendary. That I was chosen as a steward of that legacy is a sacred trust I didn’t deserve,” Waldinger said. “Fortunately, the brilliant membership and extraordinary staff made everything possible. The future has never been brighter for this organization and the people they represent.”
“We wish nothing but the best to Mike and look forward to working with him in the future. As a previous board did at the turn of this century, our board will build upon the foundation of a talented and appreciated individual in the next phase of our mission,” Moeller added. “Over the coming months, a smooth transition will take place as Mike wraps up his work here while a search committee seeks our next executive.”
ABOUT AIA ILLINOIS
The state component of the national American Institute of Architects is located where the first Architecture Practice Act in the nation was enacted. The state continues to set the trends for innovation today, both in the design field and among AIA chapters.
As the voice of the architecture profession in Illinois, AIA Illinois provides a nonpartisan perspective in the development of partnerships and good public policy. We recognize the diversity of communities and interests within the state, and seek to find common ground to achieve better, safer communities while maximizing our public investments.