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President's Award

Member volunteers are and always will be AIA Connecticut’s greatest asset. Instituted in 2018, the President’s Award recognizes an AIA Connecticut architect member who has made outstanding contributions to our organization through participation, service, and promotion of AIA CT’s mission and vision. 

2024 Awardee

Bruce R. Becker, FAIA

Becker & Becker

Bruce Redman Becker, FAIA has had a profound impact on architecture and the built environment, particularly in the realms of sustainable design and urban revitalization. His work through Becker + Becker showcases how thoughtful, integrated architecture can create not only functional spaces but also transform entire communities with environmental responsibility at the core.

Bruce’s approach to development goes beyond conventional architectural practice; he envisions buildings as tools for social and environmental change. His projects, such as the LEED Platinum-certified 777 Main in Hartford and 360 State Street in New Haven, demonstrate how large-scale, net-zero energy developments can enhance urban landscapes. These buildings are models of transit-oriented development (TOD), reducing reliance on fossil fuels and providing communities with sustainable, accessible housing. By incorporating innovative technologies—like the world’s first fuel cell powering an apartment building—Becker has pushed the boundaries of sustainable energy use in residential architecture.

His recent transformation of Marcel Breuer’s iconic Pirelli Building into Hotel Marcel highlights his dedication to adaptive reuse and preservation. This project not only honors the architectural legacy of Breuer but also redefines it, creating one of the first Passive House-certified and net-zero energy hotels in the U.S. By reimagining underutilized historic buildings and committing to rigorous green building standards, his work preserves cultural heritage while setting a new benchmark for sustainability in hospitality.

Bruce’s impact lies in his holistic approach to sustainable design, where each project is seen as a catalyst for urban revitalization, environmental stewardship, and social improvement. His work with Becker + Becker inspires the industry to look beyond traditional practices and embrace a future where architecture actively serves people, cities, and the planet.

  • 2023

    Jose Hernandez, AIA, NOMA

    Nominated by Paolo Campos, AIA, 2023 AIA CT President

    2022

    Melissa Kops, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, LFA

    Nominated by Randall Anway, AIA, 2022 AIA CT President

    2021

    Sara Bronin, AIA

    Nominated by Angela Cahill, AIA, 2021 AIA CT President

    2020

    Alan Lagocki, AIA

    Nominated by George McGoldrick, AIA, 2020 AIA CT President

    2019

    Jay Brotman, AIA

    Nominated by Glenn Gollenberg, AIA, 2019 AIA CT President

    2018

    George Fellner, AIA

    Nominated by Arthur Sanders, AIA, 2018 AIA CT President