Message from the President

JANUARY 2026

From the Desk of the President

Dear Friends & Colleagues,

Our region continues to experience growth across many of our communities. We recognize the urgent need for improved access to essential resources such as public parks, housing, education, and healthcare—critical components that shape the character and well-being of our environments. Yet, much of our infrastructure is aging, and several communities face limitations in their capacity for growth and development.

During the 1930s, our region witnessed a surge in federally sponsored Works Progress Administration (WPA) projects that brought new schools, post offices, public pools, and community centers—each a civic investment in the nation’s future. In response to this era of progress and expanding public infrastructure, our chapter was established in 1936 to serve local practitioners and support the needs of a growing community. That same year, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) presented the exhibition Architecture in Government Housing and American Architecture, showcasing the evolving architectural identity of the United States during this transformative period.

As we approach the centennial of these initiatives, it is a fitting moment to reflect on the many accomplishments our chapter has achieved and the lasting impact it has had across our region. Our success is built upon the contributions and dedication of our members, who continually provide valuable services and resources to constituents within the seven counties we represent. As a mid-sized chapter, we are a strong community of professionals committed to shaping our neighborhoods and strengthening our communities—upholding the civic responsibilities and public trust that define the architectural profession today.

Leadership, Citizen Architect, and Mentorship are key themes currently emphasized by the AIA at the national level. Rather than viewing these as individual goals for myself, I invite each of you to help disseminate and embody these values within our chapter. This year, I have chosen the theme “Community Commons: Developing Resources to Empower Creativity While Strengthening Our Society”—a call to recognize how our organization uplifts and inspires those within our profession. Across all scales, we strive to expand outreach, share knowledge, and educate others about what architecture is, whom it serves, and what we collectively aspire to achieve.

By supporting initiatives such as our Volunteer Service Outreach, Summer School Seminars, Emerging Professionals (EP), Women in Architecture (WIA), Latinos in Architecture (LiA), and Scholarship Committees, we strengthen our community. These efforts not only foster engagement and participation but also help cultivate the next generation of architects who will continue to shape our built environment and society.

This coming year marks the 90th anniversary of our chapter—a remarkable milestone that invites us to reflect on our origins and celebrate how far we have come. When the chapter was first established, it consisted of only 17 members, three of whom resided in Bronxville, New York—the same community where I am proud to live and practice today. From those modest beginnings, our chapter has evolved into a thriving organization of 774 members, including 619 licensed architects and 151 associate members who represent the future of our profession.

As I step into the role as the chapter’s 79th president, I am deeply honored to continue this legacy of service and leadership. It is both humbling and meaningful to note that I am the fifth Latino, and the first Dominican-American, to be elected to this position. This milestone not only represents personal achievement but also reflects the growing diversity and inclusivity within our profession—values that strengthen our collective voice and enrich the architectural community we serve.

I invite you to join me in energizing and supporting our chapter throughout the coming year by participating in the many programs, events, and outreach initiatives led by our committees, groups, and dedicated members. To our existing members, I extend my deepest gratitude for your continued support and commitment. To those considering membership, I warmly welcome you to be part of our community and to share in our mission—advancing the vital role architects play in shaping and improving the quality of life across Westchester and the Hudson Valley.

Richard Gonzalez, AIA