Post by Daniel Horn, AIA, NCARB, WEDG

I can think of no better candidate for The American Institute of Architects (AIA) President than my friend and colleague Willy Zambrano, FAIA, LEED AP . Willy embodies what it means to be a great architect — calm under pressure, deeply charismatic, and technically masterful. But what truly sets him apart is his unwavering commitment to community and the greater good. He doesn’t just design buildings; he brings people of vastly different backgrounds to the table to ensure ideas are not only formed, but built and fully realized. I saw firsthand his leadership evolve and grow through our time working together with AIA Queens and the The Queens Foundation for Architecture and AIA New York State. What struck me most was his gift for listening, in a way that makes every voice feel heard and valued. Willy Zambrano is exactly the kind of visionary, inclusive leader the AIA needs. I wholeheartedly support his candidacy.