At the recent AIACC Awards and Installation Celebration, Acting California State Architect Howard “Chip” Smith was recognized for his distinguished service to the citizens of California and the design and construction community. For the past 15 months, Chip faced a multitude of challenges worsened by a difficult economy and a highly politicized environment. His leadership, dedication, and perseverance have enabled the Division of the State Architect (DSA) to continue to address and resolve complex issues and concerns surrounding the design, approval, and construction of public schools.

The AIACC is heavily vested in the discussions about a renewed DSA, the appointment of a strong state architect, and the DSA’s role in the renewal of California as a leader in the thoughtful development of the built environment. During his tenure, Chip has proven to be an ally of the profession, sharing the AIACC’s interest in the facilitation of collaboration and the constructive engagement of the design and construction community toward the shared goal of providing stability to the DSA and leadership to the office.