Welcome to Capitol Columns

Statewide government advocacy is one of the core member services provided by the American Institute of Architects New York State (AIANYS). The need to organize a representative and influential voice was a driving force behind the founding of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in 1857 by Richard Upjohn in New York City. Communicating the impact of state policy on the profession of architecture and the associated efforts of AIANYS to influence the public policymaking process, is essential to creating an informed and engaged membership.

It is our hope that this quarterly newsletter will provide a medium to spotlight AIANYS government advocacy efforts and present a unique perspective of public policymaking in New York through the lens of the architectural profession.

AIANYS volunteers and staff work tirelessly on behalf of the profession to advance the interests of members and elevate the profession in the eyes of all New Yorkers. Much of this work is performed behind-the-scenes and is so ingrained in the culture of the organization that the daily grind never makes it to print. Only those volunteers serving in a position of leadership or on a committee are truly immersed and aware of the breadth of issues, threats, and opportunities facing the profession on the policy front.

This publication is meant to bridge the knowledge gap and expand member understanding of AIANYS government advocacy efforts and illustrate the impact of state policymaking on the profession and the built environment. As this publication grows and matures, we will invite members, public policymakers, and other subject matter experts to contribute content to help broaden the spectrum of voices.

We hope you find this first issue of Capitol Columns valuable, and those issues to come.

Very truly yours,

Paul McDonnell, AIA President

Giuseppe Anzalone, AIA Vice President/Government Advocacy

Willy Zambrano, AIA President-Elect Legislative Counsel Whiteman, Osterman & Hanna LLP

Michael Burridge Director of Government Affairs

Georgi Ann Bailey, CAE, Hon. AIA Executive Vice President

Richard

Leckerling,

Partner

Katherine

Herlihy,

Partner Agnes Leahy, Director of Legislative Research