American Institute of Architects, NYS, Inc.

AIA New York State, Inc., an organization of The American Institute of Architects, came into being of necessity. In the early 1900’s, as the profession was becoming more regulated, Architects of New York State realized the need for a centralized organization to represent the profession. The organization’s objective was unification of the profession in dealing with so many of the issues facing the architect in practice. Thus, the primary reason for AIA New York State (AIANYS) was to influence state legislation in connection with the practice of Architecture and remains the primary reason for its existence today.

From its inception, legislative and regulatory affairs were of vital importance to the architects and their practice.  Year after year, the association’s legislative program increased in volume and importance, where leadership found themselves required to make regular appearances before the legislative bodies in Albany. Legislative initiatives became especially important when the New York State Association of Architects became a chartered organization of The American Institute of Architects, increasing the scope and influence of the state association considerably among the member chapters and the state Legislature.