Shepley Bulfinch has been selected for honors in the Diversity Recognition Program (DRP) of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) for its work in fostering a diverse culture in its practice.
The firm, one of three to be so recognized, was be honored formally at the 2011 AIA National Convention in New Orleans.
"This is such a tremendous honor for everyone at Shepley," said president Carole Wedge, FAIA, LEED AP. "It acknowledges the fulfillment of a vision and a commitment first made 25 years ago with a deliberate and ambitious series of policies and practices we've developed and implemented together as a firm."
Wedge became the firm's first president in its 137-year history in 2004. A large percentage of Shepley Bulfinch's leaders today are women or minorities. Headquartered in Boston, the firm today has offices in Boston and Phoenix.
Recognition in the DRP is the second major honor the firm has received as a practice from the AIA. Shepley Bulfinch received the AIA Architecture Firm award in 1973.
Now in its third year, the program recognizes architects, AIA chapters, and others who are actively committed to increasing diversity and inclusion within the architecture profession.
"The DRP celebrates the best practices by AIA members, components, schools and firms to diversify the architectural profession," said 2011 juror Clarence Kwan, AIA. "Hopefully others can learn from these examples and implement their own plans."
Joining Shepley Bulfinch as 2011 honorees are Carol Kurth FAIA, of Bedford, N.Y.; and Dougherty & Dougherty Architects LLP of Costa Mesa, CA.