American Institute of Architects Elevates Jesse Thompson, FAIA to the College of Fellows
American Institute of Architects Elevates Jesse Thompson, FAIA to the College of Fellows
AIA Fellowship Recognizes Significant Contributions to Profession of Architecture and Society
The 2024 Jury of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) elevated Jesse Thompson, FAIA, LEED AP, CPHC to its prestigious College of Fellows. As the organization’s highest honor, Fellowship is awarded to members who have made significant contributions to the profession and to society, who exemplify architectural excellence, and whose work has had a profound influence or ripple effect.
Only 3% of the AIA’s 98,000+ national members have earned the distinction of Fellowship. In 2024, 96 AIA members were elevated to this honor. Thompson joins six other Fellows in the state of Maine, and is the first to be recognized in the state since 2016.
Thompson was recognized in the category of Design, Urban Design, or Preservation, in which candidates must demonstrate how they have promoted the aesthetic, scientific, and practical efficiency of the profession. The submission was based on Thompson’s commitment to designing for ecology, change, and equity. Through industry leadership, individual mentorship, and high-performance architecture expertise, he inspires others to rise to the challenge of creating spaces that are beautiful, sustainable, and attainable.
AIA Maine Executive Director Jeannette Schram commented, “AIA Maine is thrilled that Jesse Thompson was elevated to the College of Fellows. Jesse has a deep understanding of the impact architects can have on the world's most pressing challenges regarding climate action, equity and justice, and education. As President of AIA Maine, Jesse carefully threaded the needle of meeting members where they were while proving by example that small, incremental, future-focused changes can have a significant and lasting impact on the organization and the profession.”
Thompson said, “I’m honored and humbled to be welcomed into the College of Fellows. Several of my colleagues in the industry were incredibly generous with their time supporting my application, particularly my sponsor, Scott Simons. I hope this personal award helps push a larger message about the potential and importance of sustainability in architecture.”
Thompson will accept the award at an investiture ceremony held during the AIA national conference on June 7, 2024 in Washington, DC.
About Kaplan Thompson Architects
Kaplan Thompson Architects has been committed to designing beautiful, sustainable, attainable buildings since 2006. With a focus in residential new construction and renovations, multifamily homes, community spaces, and educational facilities, the firm operates throughout New England, primarily in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Vermont. https://www.kaplanthompson.com
About the American Institute of Architects
Founded in 1857, the American Institute of Architects consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. The AIA Maine chapter supports Maine architects and architecture through leadership, advocacy, fellowship, and design excellence. https://aiamaine.org
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For more information, press only:
Adrienne Stauffer, Principal, (207) 842-2888, adrienne@kaplanthompson.com
Jesse Thompson, Principal, (207) 842-2888, jesse@kaplanthompson.com
Jeannette Schram, Executive Director, (207) 200-5978, jeannette@aiamaine.org