Posted on November 15, 2024 by Klesse College Staff
Armando Araiza, UTSA Architecture Department educator, celebrates receiving the 2024 AIA San Antonio Community Partner People Award with a colleague at the People + Place Celebration. This award honors Araiza's dedication to architectural education and community engagement.
San Antonio, TX — The American Institute of Architects (AIA) San Antonio has named Armando Araiza, a distinguished educator from UTSA's Architecture Department, as the recipient of its prestigious 2024 Community Partner People Award. This accolade recognizes Araiza’s significant contributions to architectural education, community engagement, and urban development.
The AIA Community Partner Award was established in 2017 to honor individuals outside of AIA’s membership who have demonstrated a longstanding commitment to community service, positively impacting urban, environmental, or neighborhood initiatives. Araiza’s recognition by AIA San Antonio reflects his 16 years of dedication as an educator at UTSA’s School of Architecture + Planning, where he has consistently merged academic research with hands-on community projects.
Throughout his career, Araiza has been a transformative force in the classroom, known for integrating cutting-edge digital technologies and fabrication techniques into the curriculum. His innovative approach has not only enhanced the learning experience for his students but also pushed the architecture program into new and exciting directions. His mentorship has empowered countless students to develop their own design voices, preparing them to become influential professionals in the field.
Beyond his impact at UTSA, Araiza's collaborative efforts with professional organizations such as AIA San Antonio, the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), and the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) have enriched the architecture community at large. His ability to bridge academic theory with practical, community-focused solutions has made him a vital asset to both his students and the broader San Antonio community.
The award was officially presented at the AIA San Antonio’s annual People + Place Celebration on November 12 at the Whitley Conference Center. This event featured industry leaders, colleagues, and community members to celebrate Araiza’s achievements and his unwavering dedication to advancing architectural education and community engagement.
Congratulations to Armando Araiza for this well-deserved honor, which highlights his profound influence on the next generation of architects and his commitment to fostering a more innovative, inclusive, and sustainable built environment.
— Klesse College Staff
