Public Service Awards

For many years, AIA Connecticut has recognized individuals and organizations who have given outstanding service to the Connecticut architectural community as a whole, including service to the profession, public service, and education.

Individuals, groups, associations, and members of the Connecticut community at large are eligible for this award. Past honorees have included architects, municipal and State leaders, educators, authors, and organizations of various types.

2025 NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!

Eligibility

Any of the following may be eligible for the Public Service Award:

Individuals, or public or private organizations, outside the architecture profession, who have made significant contributions to the improvement of Connecticut’s built environment. Contributions may include, but are not limited to, advancement or development of laws, regulations, policies, or initiatives that promote excellence in architecture; education of the public and activities that raise the public’s consciousness of the importance of excellent design in the shaping of our world and culture.

Architects who serve as elected or appointed officials, public administrators, or institutional leaders and establish and contribute to the development of laws, regulations, policies, or initiatives that promote excellence in architecture.

Previous recipients of the Public Service Award are eligible for nomination after ten years have passed since initially receiving the award.

Nominations are submitted by AIA Connecticut members.

Nominations close on October 3, 2025 at 11:59pm EST.

Nominations must be submitted through the nomination page.

Questions? Contact communications@aiact.org

2024 Honor Recipient

Omarys Vasquez, AIA NOMA

State Building Inspector, Division of Regulatory Compliance, State of Connecticut

With a passion for building codes and safety, Omarys Vasquez collaborates on code development, provides interpretations, oversees permitting, and ensures compliance through inspections. She also supports licensure and continuing education for building officials in partnership with the Office of Education and Data Management.

As both a learner and mentor, she enjoys helping others navigate complex code requirements, fostering collaboration and shared understanding. Passionate about contributing to the future of Connecticut’s built environment, Omarys is committed to ensuring that the state’s building codes remain relevant, responsive, and aligned with the needs of its communities.

Beyond her professional role, Omarys is committed to promoting equity and diversity in the design and construction fields. She is a founding member of the Connecticut chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMAct) and a former committee member of the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Knowledge Community for the American Institute of Architects Connecticut. Additionally, she serves on the University of Hartford’s Architecture Advisory Board.

Omarys earned her Bachelor of Architecture degree from the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. Recognized for her leadership, she was named to Connecticut Magazine’s “40 Under 40” list in 2022.

Photo credit: Mikey Vasquez

PAST PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS