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Robert Ivy, executive vice president and CEO of AIA, responds to post-election memo criticism

Ivy Responds

Robert Ivy, executive vice president and CEO of AIA, responds to post-election memo criticism

UPDATE: Robert Ivy issues second apology for tone-deaf post-election memo

Within hours of Donald J. Trump’s election victory, Roberty Ivy, executive vice president and CEO of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) issued a memorandum in support of the President-Elect, pledging that AIA members “stand ready” to work hand-in-hand with the new administration in pursuit of new infrastructure projects.

In response to growing outcry from AIA members over the inappropriate nature and myopic tone of the memo, the editorial board of The Architect’s Newspaper (AN) issued a response late Friday evening in support of AIA members who felt that Ivy’s memo did not represent their professional and personal concerns. AN’s response can be found here.

This evening, Ivy issued a response to AN’s editorial, which can be found below:

To: Editorial staff at The Architect’s Newspaper

We recognize that the current, post-election environment is unique and has aroused strong and heartfelt feelings within all communities, including that of AIA membership. In this context, our recent statement in support of design and construction’s future role with the new Administration has been viewed with concern by a number of our colleagues.

The AIA, a bi-partisan organization with strong values, reasserts our commitment to a fair and just society, and also respects the right of each member to his or her political beliefs, knowing that we are all united in our desire to contribute to the well-being and success of our nation and our world.

The AIA remains firmly committed to advocating for the values and principles that will create a more sustainable, inclusive and humane world.  The spirit and intention behind our statement is consistent with and in support of President Obama’s eloquent call for us all to unite for the best interest of America’s future.

Respectfully,

AIA Executive Vice President / CEO, Robert Ivy, FAIA and AIA President, Russ Davidson, FAIA

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