Outstanding alumnus named
head of AIA New York Chapter

An outstanding alumnus of Texas A&M's College of Architecture will pursue a theme of "Architect as Leader" during his yearlong term as president of the New York chapter of the American Association of Architects.

Anthony Schirripa, chairman and CEO of Mancini•Duffy, a New York architecture firm, earned Bachelor of Environmental Design and Bachelor of Building Construction degrees at Texas A&M in 1973.

“It’s time to celebrate and elevate the complete architect — the designer, planner, innovator, leader,“ said Schirripa at his inauguration ceremony Dec. 10, 2009. “As we begin to emerge in 2010 from one of the worst recessions of our lifetimes, architects will have the opportunity not just for more work, but for designing projects that will lead our industry, this city, and the nation on the road to recovery and growth."

He said architects will be asked to show the way by designing sustainable buildings, helping communities plan for a healthy and viable future and lending the full breadth of their knowledge and skill to local and global policy decisions in an increasingly interdependent and integrated world.

Schirripa has been a driving force in transforming Mancini•Duffy from a mid-sized local practice to a large, multi-office operation with a diversified client base and an international reputation.
His emphasis on strategic planning, investments in technology, training and continuing education and his businesslike approach to project and practice management are the foundation for the firm’s growth.

He was feted as an outstanding alumnus of the College of Architecture Nov. 13 with 10 fellow honorees at the Miramont Country Club in Bryan.

At his inauguration, Schirippa said the chapter will host a series of programs, competitions and exhibitions exploring the role of the architect in a leadership role in firms, communities and the political arena:

• Leadership in Sustainable Design—highlighting the ways in which architects contribute to building a sustainable world.  The architect’s role goes far beyond design: it includes responsibility for teaching people how to use sustainable buildings, how buildings can be catalysts for sustainable communities and how design and behavior are interdependent.

• Leadership Training in Partnership With a Major University—exploring methods and challenges of running a successful business—including developing and implementing a strategic business plan, preparing for a smooth ownership transition, and maintaining a healthy practice no matter the economic conditions.

• Not Business as Usual—programs that continue to provide the necessary resources and support to AIA members during the recession.

• A major exhibition—highlighting how architect and contractor come together to build the structures and neighborhoods that architects design. The exhibition will include interactive elements that demonstrate the close collaboration of design and construction teams during the building process, from building information modeling to curtain wall erection and testing. Hands-on displays will teach young people about skills such as bricklaying, pouring concrete, and setting studs.

Schirippa said he's looking forward to a resurgent economy, a stronger chapter recognized for its intellectual, practical, and imaginative leaders, and an AIA New York City that will unify the chapters in all the city boroughs.

 “We are so proud to have Tony serve as president of one of the most prestigious AIA chapters in the country," said Dina Frank, president of Mancini•Duffy.   We know he will lead the chapter with the same dedication, vision and energy that he has brought to our practice.”

- Posted: Jan. 12, 2010-