Committees in Action

  • DOB | Industry Committee

    Co-chair: Gino O. Longo | glongo@ginolongo.com

    Co-chair: Yury Yagudayev | yury.yag@gmail.com

    Attendees receive 1 CEU. If you would like to be added to our email list, please email: AIAQueensChapter@gmail.com with the message: “Please add my Email to the Industry Meeting list.”

    Queens Industry Sessions:

    3rd Wednesday of Every Month, 2pm – 3:30pm | Queens Borough Hall: 120-55 Queens Boulevard, Room G110

    Any questions for the meeting should be submitted at LEAST seven (7) days in advance via email to QueensPER11Appointments@buildings.nyc.gov.

    Questions submitted via email must include “Industry Meeting Question” in the subject line.

    You MUST CONFIRM ATTENDANCE at least 5 days in advance to our in-person.

    All confirmed attendees will receive a confirmation email the day before the meeting. A Microsoft Teams link will also be provided for those who have confirmed, but ultimately cannot physically attend.

    Click Here for Previous Meeting Minutes

  • Queens Emerging Professionals in Architecture (QEPA) Committee

    Chair: Gino V. Longo | ginojr.longoaia@gmail.com

    The mission of the QEPA Committee is to empower and advocate for emerging professionals within the architecture profession. We provide a platform for the growth and development of individuals in the early stages of their architectural careers.

    We foster mentorship, education, and networking opportunities while advocating for the unique needs and contributions of emerging professionals within the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the broader architectural community. By facilitating a sense of community, offering guidance, and promoting leadership, we aim to inspire the next generation of architects and shape the future of our profession.

  • Finance Committee

    Chair: Patrick A. Hammond | info@hammondarchitecture.nyc

    Member: Jorge E. Cherres | jorge@ccarchts.com

    Member: Victor K. Han | vkhpera@msn.com

    The Finance committee consists of three to five members and provides overall financial oversight of the chapter.

    The members of the committee meet quarterly and are responsible for:

    • Preparing an annual budget for approval by the full membership.

    • Monitoring financial statements and preparing profit and loss statements.

    • Overseeing annual financial reporting and tax filings.

    • Ensuring that the chapter has cash reserves and investments necessary for long-term success.

  • Scholarship Committee

    Chair: William Gati, AIA | wgati@architecturestudio.com

    The function and objective of the Scholarship Committee revolves around identifying and supporting individuals who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to the field of architecture.

    In addition, it aims to invest in the future of architecture by supporting promising individuals, fostering diversity and inclusivity, and promoting excellence within the profession.

  • Historic Tours Committee

    Chair: Kevin Wolfe, AIA

    The Historic Tour Committee of the AIA Queens Chapter is dedicated to fostering a profound appreciation for the architectural heritage of Queens, New York. The primary goal is to curate and execute meticulously planned architectural tours that illuminate the diverse and innovative designs shaping Queens' built environment. By uniting architects, designers, and enthusiasts, the committee aims to cultivate a sense of community and facilitate meaningful dialogues about the architectural landscape of the borough.

    Through these tours, the committee seeks to heighten awareness of the cultural and historical significance inherent in Queens' structures while also highlighting contemporary trends and sustainable practices in architecture. Ultimately, the AIA Queens Chapter Historic Tour Committee endeavors to inspire and educate individuals about the transformative power of architecture, promoting a collective engagement with the built environment that contributes to the ongoing dialogue and development of the architectural profession in Queens.

  • Advocacy Committee

    Chair: Adedosu Joshua | archplanJoshua@msn.com

    The Advocacy Committee of the AIA Queens Chapter aligns with the principles set forth by AIA National and AIA NYS, focusing on collective action to promote architects, advance architecture, and enhance standards of professional practice. Recognizing the profound impact of architecture on society, we embrace our ethical obligation to uphold the public trust.

    As stated by AIA NYS, architects play an essential role in human well-being, and we must integrate public policy with civic engagement to guide our members in serving their communities effectively. This includes fulfilling our professional obligations through knowledge, collaboration, skill, and expertise to enhance public health, safety, and welfare.

    The AIA Queens Advocacy Committee collaborates with the Architects Council of New York City (ACNY) to review New York City building and construction laws, ensuring they serve the best interests of architectural practices. We assess the potential impact of government laws, regulations, and policies on the architecture profession and work with elected officials to advocate for effective oversight measures.

    Our committee serves as the voice on public issues, addressing areas such as building codes, energy codes, zoning resolutions, and effective advocacy strategies. We strive to create flexible, resilient, and sustainable designs, identify patterns and trends, and demonstrate shared values that positively impact community concerns.

    Our approach focuses on providing reliable information and building strong trust while keeping politics separate from policies. By advocating for the best interests of architects and the communities we serve, and aim to contribute to a more vibrant and sustainable built environment for all.