For Immediate Release

(New Haven, CT, November 22, 2021) The Connecticut Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA Connecticut) announced the Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) award at the annual awards gala on November 16th at Aria in Prospect, CT.

The Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Awards acknowledge architectural firms who have made a commitment to:

• JUSTICE in acknowledging and denouncing racism and sexism, removing barriers to opportunities, and promoting the success of all individuals in the profession.
• EQUITY in providing balanced resources and opportunities to ensure every practitioner can reach an equal outcome.
• DIVERSITY in encompassing an array of practitioners who represent varied experiences and perspectives.
• INCLUSION in fostering a sense of belonging for all voices and perspectives to feel welcomed, respected, supported and valued to fully participate.

Launched in November 2020, it was envisioned to offer AIA Connecticut firms a roadmap to actively produce results, both short term and long term. Eleven firms made the J.E.D.I. commitment to embrace these principles to make a difference and were acknowledged for their impact.

• Amenta Emma Architects, Hartford, CT
• CPG Architects, Stamford, CT
• Hoffmann Architects, Hamden, CT
• Huestis Tucker Architects, Woodbridge, CT
• JCJ Architecture, Hartford, CT
• QA+ M Architecture, Farmington, CT
• Patriquin Architects, New Haven, CT
• Perkins Eastman Architects, Stamford, CT
• Pickard Chilton Architects, New Haven, CT
• Svigals + Partners, New Haven, CT
• TLB Architecture,  Chester, CT

One firm, Hoffmann Architects, was awarded the inaugural J.E.D.I award for their outstanding strategies and efforts in creating an environment for the future of the architecture practice.

• Created a dynamic, interactive internal blog focused on diversity and inclusion.
• Established a Diversity Advancement Scholarship with the Connecticut Architecture Foundation for minority students pursuing architecture and engineering careers.
• Established a Student Loan Repayment Program for employees to assist in paying down student debt, which disproportionately impacts people of color.
• Started a D&I Book Club for staff to share conversation about challenging topics through literature and non-fiction selections.
• Connected with ACE Mentor Program to provide volunteer mentorship opportunities for their staff.
• Participate regularly in online Diversity Challenges from the United Way and other organizations.

About AIA Connecticut:

AIA Connecticut, a statewide chapter of the American Institute of Architects, serves the architectural profession, encourages design excellence, and works to improve society through a concern for the quality of the built and natural environments. Members commit themselves to the highest standards of practice and code of ethics that addresses responsibilities to the public, clients, the building industry, and the art and science of architecture.

AIA Connecticut serves as a resource to architects and the public. Its membership of over 1,500 is comprised of architects, associates working towards licensure, students, and professionals in affiliated fields.

For more information, visit AIA Connecticut’s website at www.aiact.org