Approved: October 11, 2018 The American Institute of Architects, as part of the global community, champions a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion within the profession of architecture to create a better environment for all. Achieving this vision has a direct impact on the relevance of our profession and the world’s prosperity, health, and future.

Approved: February, 2024 The AIA Central Valley Chapter believes it can best help address the affordable housing crisis, by focusing its efforts on the production of Missing Middle Housing. Click here to read our position statement.

Curious what all those letters mean after a design professional’s name? We’re here to help decipher that alphabet soup for you. AIA members fall into different designations based on the status of their license as well as other criteria. With the exception of the Allied category, you’ll see our members using these abbreviations after their name to proudly indicate their AIA affiliation to the public and their clients. AIA: U.S licensed architects FAIA: Members elevated to the AIA College of Fellows for exceptional work and contributions to architecture and society Assoc. AIA: Unlicensed to practice architecture but meeting other professional criteria Hon. AIA or Hon. FAIA: Honorary members Intl. Assoc. AIA: Those with an architecture license or equivalent from a licensing authority outside the United States Allied: Other building- or design-related professionals Emeritus: Architect or associate members in good standing for at least 15 successive years who meet certain age and/or retirement criteria, who may continue using the designation they had prior to approval of their application for emeritus status