| Biography/History: |
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is a professional organization for architects in the United States, offering education, government advocacy, community redevelopment, and public outreach to support the architecture profession. The American Institute of Architects was founded in New York City in 1857 by a group of 13 architects to "promote the scientific and practical perfection of its members" and "elevate the standing of the profession." Prior to the establishment of the AIA, anyone could claim to be an architect, as there were no schools of architecture or architectural licensing laws in the United States. They drafted a constitution and bylaws under the name New York Society of Architects, later changing the name to American Institute of Architects. The constitution was amended the following year with the mission "to promote the artistic, scientific, and practical profession of its members; to facilitate their intercourse and good fellowship; to elevate the standing of the profession; and to combine the efforts of those engaged in the practice of Architecture, for the general advancement of the Art." |