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Fellows

FELLOWS
For those architects who have made significant contributions to architecture and to society
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About Us

The Fellows Committee seeks to stimulate a sharing of interests among Chapter Fellows, promote the purposes of the Institute, advance the profession of architecture, mentor young architects, and be of ever-increasing service to society.

The AIA Fellowship program was developed to elevate those architects who have made a significant contribution to architecture and society and who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession. Election to Fellowship not only recognizes the achievements of the architect as an individual, but also honors before the public and the profession a model architect who has made a significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level.

So how does one go about becoming a Fellow? Architect members of the AIA who have been in good standing for at least ten cumulative years may be nominated for Fellowship by their Chapter or by a petition signed by any five Fellows or any ten AIA members. In addition, each candidate must be sponsored by either an FAIA or AIA member in good standing. The sponsor provides a one-page letter of introduction to the jury that includes specific reasons why the candidate deserves to be a Fellow.  The AIA Northern Virginia Fellows Committee is here to help you through the process.  Please reach out via email to [email protected].

Our Leadership

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Manoj Dalaya, FAIA

2026 Co-Chair
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Kevin Sneed, FAIA

2026 Co-Chair

Check Out Latest News

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01/18/2026

Why AIA Membership Matters to Me

I remember getting involved with my local AIA chapter fresh out of graduate school. At the time, my motivation was simple: free access to licensure study materials – an invaluable resource that ultimately helped me pass the exams. It didn’t take long to realize, however, that my AIA membership offered far more than just support in preparing for exams. Being
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01/17/2026

Kick Off the Year with Purpose: Attend the AIA NoVA Volunteer Fair!

Every January, we all make plans for the year ahead—projects to land, skills to sharpen, goals to hit. This year, I’d argue there’s one more thing worth putting on your calendar: the AIA Northern Virginia Volunteer Fair. If you care about architecture, community, and people (and if you’re reading this, you probably do), this event is for you. Who Should
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01/14/2026

Awards & Opportunities

Professional awards and scholarships play a vital role in recognizing excellence, supporting emerging talent, and advancing the future of architecture. From honoring innovative design and leadership to providing critical financial support for students and early-career professionals, these opportunities help shape meaningful careers and elevate the profession as a whole. Below is a curated list of architecture awards and scholarship opportunities