Robert P. Washer, Honorary Affiliate AIAMI, FESD

Presiden t, Michigan Architectural Foundation

Dear Construction Associates and Friends,

When I followed Gene Hopkins, FAIA, as MAF President in January this year, I knew that since I was not an Architect, there may be challenges in front of me. I am known for my ability to take on challenges, but I had the illusion that my leadership would be like herding turtles..well, was I wrong!

Our board of 24 trustees is a great group, with over half Architects and approximately 40% public trustees with backgrounds in construction management, engineering, non-profit organizing, legal, real estate development, public relations and insurance.

The Governance Model, which was initiated by Gene over a year ago, has developed a structure to allow the individual board members to gravitate to areas of interest and to participate in one or more of our three committees ....  development, programs and communication.  And you know what?  It is working and producing 5 star events like our silent auction at the AIAMI Mid Summer Conference and our  Charity Golf outing, that took place on July 18th. It is producing programs that our fellow Architects or the general public can learn and enjoy.

I will speak in detail, in future "Message" articles, of other events and programs we offer.  We are YOUR Foundation, that has a mission to make the public aware as to how Architecture enriches our lives. It is our  objective to spread this news.  Please feel free to contact me, or any of our Board members, if you have programs or events that we can consider and support.

I look forward to hearing from you.

 

Save the Date for the Children's Essential Books of Architecture Reception coming this October 27, 2016.  More information will arrive in your inboxes soon.

To view the 100 Essential Books of Architecture, click here.

Did you know that the Michigan Architectural Foundation is a member of the Association of Architecture Organizations (AAO)? The AAO is a member-based network that connects the many organizations around the world dedicated to enhancing public dialogue about architecture and design. Founded in 2009, AAO currently serves nonprofit architectural organizations and interested individuals in 75 cities across the United States and 10 countries. Members include architecture centers, design professionals, architecture and design schools, educators, historic preservation trusts, design advocacy and urban planning organizations, and museums with architecture collections. Taken collectively, AAO Member organizations conduct public programs that reach an estimated annual audience of 4.5 million children and adult learners.

To learn more about the AAO visit their website here .