The Virginia Center for Architecture welcomes today Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA, as its new Executive Director. Dreiling, an architect and Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, brings extensive experience in non-profit management to the Center. She begins on Jan. 21, 2011.
“I am quite excited to be taking on this new challenge,” says Dreiling. “The Center has led by example in the development of centers for architecture throughout the United States. By building strong relationships with members of the architecture profession, the design and construction industry, and private citizens who love architecture, I expect the Center to continue its leadership in these emerging enterprises. With dozens of exhibitions since its opening in 2005, and many more dozens of public programs, the Center has established a reputation that we shall continue to build upon. Our communities everywhere depend on the kind of public understanding and appreciation of architecture that the Center fosters as its main mission.”
Dreiling, a former president of the Virginia Society of the American Institute of Architects, is currently national secretary of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and principal of The Plum Studio, Ltd. Other professional experience includes nearly ten years on the senior staff of the AIA and work with several Virginia architecture firms, as well as The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Dreiling received her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Virginia Tech, where she was named “Woman of the Year” in 1981. She has also served as a Regent of the American Architectural Foundation and was AIA Liaison to the American Institute of Architecture Students Board of Directors.
“We’re thrilled that Helene is bringing her vast experience and expertise in architecture and design, program management, and non-profit fund-raising and strategic planning to the Center,” says Board Chair Joe Wells, AIA. “Her creative approach to problem solving and her solid commitment to the Center’s mission and values are a wonderful fit for our organization.”
The Virginia Center for Architecture is located at 2501 Monument Avenue in Richmond, Virginia’s historic Fan District. The Center is dedicated to developing the understanding of the power and importance of architecture through programs, exhibitions, and its stewardship of an historic landmark. The Center is open to the public Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Learn more at www.virginiaarchitecture.org.