The standing-room-only audience of 2,400 offered a rousing ovation to Atlanta civil rights activist Cecil A. Alexander, FAIA, as he received the Whitney M. Young Award for social responsibility from AIA President John D, Anderson, FAIA, at Thursday's theme session. Alexander said he was particular pleased to receive this award, because he had worked with Young, who, "were he here, would again challenge us," Alexander said. "The quest for civil rights continues."

Alexander presented the AIA with a copy of the flag he designed, which replaced the Georgia state flag that displayed the Confederate battle flag. The state adopted the new flag earlier this year. "We as architects must demand justice for all," he exhorted.

Kudos and thank-yous
AIA Executive Vice President/CEO Norman L. Koonce, FAIA, who opened the session, declared, "What a great vision has gone into making this event today!" He thanked all the people who had a hand in putting the convention together, particularly President Anderson, who, Koonce said, designed and led the convention with his "mile-high enthusiasm."

Anderson, in turn, thanked the national, state, and local staffs and volunteers who put the event together, in particular Patrick C. Rehse, FAIA, National Convention Advisory Committee chair; and John C. Brokaw, AIA, and Peter F. Eisle, AIA, Colorado Convention Committee cochairs. "I couldn't be happier or prouder than I am today," he said. The 77th AIA president said it was the first time in recent memory that a president hosted the national convention in his hometown, and that he was particularly appreciative of the opportunity to do so.

It was apparent that Anderson is equally appreciative of Denver as he spoke of the personal and professional joy of helping Denver grow up to be a vibrant urban area over the last 50 years. "Denver is a city that works . . . It wears a coat of many colors and it wears it well," he explained.

The spirit that drives Denver is the same spirit that enlightens the profession and in fact drives the AIA, he explained. "Thank you, Denver! You're looking great!" Anderson exclaimed.

Anderson also expressed his appreciation to the McGraw-Hill Construction Information Group (CIG), which sponsored the convention's theme sessions and much more. CIG President Norbert Young, FAIA, was on hand to explain the group's strategic partnership with the AIA and introduce the keynote speaker. "We are fully committed to our partnerships with the design and construction industry," Young said, "and no partner is more important to us than the American Institute of Architects."

Copyright 2001 The American Institute of Architects. All rights reserved.