Delegates to the AIA national convention elected Marshall E. Purnell, FAIA, to serve as the 2007 first vice president/president elect and 2008 Institute president. Purnell, the mid-Atlantic regional director and design principal of Devrouax + Purnell Architects and Planners PC, Washington, D.C., says, “I have been in private practice for 28 years since my days on the national component staff, and I have never strayed far from the AIA family. I hope it is obvious: I care deeply about this profession. I believe architecture has the potential to empower people in ways that can significantly change their lives.”

That potential, Purnell says, is manifest in many areas of involvement. “AIA members have the potential to bring the leadership of our cities together and create an action plan for sustainable, livable, healthy communities. We have the potential to house people, governments, and institutions in times of need. We have the potential to deliver our services in new, efficient, and exciting ways that benefit our clients and us. We have the potential to inspire architects to run for public office and seek public appointments throughout the country. We have the potential to change the face of this profession to better reflect the communities we serve.”

Purnell is active in national board activities, including the Board Advocacy, Diversity, Scholarship, Historic Resources, and Housing committees. Prior to cofounding his firm, he joined the national staff for four years. He’s taken the helm of the AIA/DC’s leadership and is a fellow of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), of which he was elected president, and to several other executive positions. Purnell also finds the time to make a commitment to his hometown, twice serving as chair of D.C. United Way Campaign, and chair of City First Bank of D.C. Former board activities include Washington Urban League, D.C. Commission on the Arts, Cultural Alliance, and Studio Theatre, as well his alumni associations.

Purnell earned his BS and MArch degrees from the University of Michigan, where he worked after graduation. He taught at the University of Maryland before joining the executive office and government affairs staff at AIA national. Purnell has four children.

Says Purnell, “To lead effectively, one must be able to listen and respect, empower and encourage, act and inspire…Our founders would be amazed at what has been accomplished in 150 years and marvel at our potential.”

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