This year 2023 TxA President Nicki Marrone, AIA, awarded two Presidential Citations at our 84th Annual Conference & Design Expo in Fort Worth on November 2. Congratulations to this year’s recipients: Debra Dockery, FAIA; and the 2022 and 2023 School Safety Subcommittees, Becky Walker, and Kathy Grant.
Presidential Citation
awarded to
DEBRA J. DOCKERY, FAIA
WHEREAS the profession is governed by the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE) which exists to protect those who live, work, and play in the built environment of Texas, including the health, safety, and welfare of Texas communities; and
WHEREAS TBAE asks for architects to give their time and service to the board and must be appointed by the governor; and
WHEREAS after serving six years on TBAE, a separate governor appointed her chair of TBAE, and became the first woman to serve in the role; and
WHEREAS in addition to her service at TBAE she has given countless hours to mentor young people interested in a career in architecture; and
WHEREAS she has dedicated time to serve as a volunteer for the Texas Society of Architects, San Antonio AIA, the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, and other entities:
THEREFORE, in recognition of her public service and achievements, which reflect so well on the greater purpose and value of architects and the profession of architecture in Texas generally, I gratefully and proudly present this Presidential Citation on behalf of the Texas Society of Architects to commemorate and honor the exemplary dedication and outstanding good works of this esteemed member of our profession and the American Institute of Architects, Debra J. Dockery, FAIA.
Nicki Marrone, AIA
2023 President
Presidential Citation
awarded to
2022 and 2023 School Safety Subcommittees, Becky Walker, and Kathy Grant
WHEREAS the School Safety Subcommittee exhibited exemplary leadership and dedication guiding significant legislative action, and contributed to the school safety dialogue by identifying resources and leading practices, as well as sharing knowledge; and
WHEREAS the subcommittee led the Society’s advocacy efforts in response to the tragic events and loss of life at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, TX on May 24, 2022 — which brought awareness
of the importance of safer K-12 facilities to the forefront of not only the public but the Texas legislature, Texas Education Agency, and the governor’s office; and
WHEREAS the subcommittee members, staff, and colleagues with deep knowledge of the subject worked tirelessly with the Texas Education Agency and state legislators to assist in drafting school facilities rules and discuss funding needs for school safety improvements; and
WHEREAS the subcommittee advocated for legislation that continued to improve the safety and security of Texas schools through ongoing work and to promote best practice standards for the design and construction of school facilities; and
WHEREAS the subcommittee has committed to provide expert guidance on how school districts and charter schools might improve school safety in existing facilities and in the design of new facilities while
maintaining open and positive learning environments:
THEREFORE, in recognition of their efforts, which reflect so well on the greater purpose and value of architects and the profession of architecture in Texas generally, I gratefully and proudly present
this Presidential Citation on behalf of the Texas Society of Architects to commemorate and honor the outstanding work of this esteemed group of members.
Co-Chairs Dan Bankhead, AIA (2022); Abby Hiles, AIA (2023)
Chudi Abajue, AIA; John Brooks, AIA; Kerri Brady, AIA; Lauren Brown, AIA; Nichole Carroway, AIA; Sean Connor, AIA; Jerry Lammers, AIA; Tommy Osborne, AIA; Brad Pfluger, AIA; Antonio Puerto, AIA; Ryan Rosche, AIA; and Julie Williams, AIA
Staff Liaison Becky Walker; Contract Lobbyist Kathy Grant
Nicki Marrone, AIA
2023 President