News

Greetings to all AIA Central New Jersey members!

As the new year begins and I take on the role of AIA Central NJ Section President, I am reminded of all the exemplary work of past leadership in reconstituting and advancing the mission of AIA Central NJ in the years bridging and following the COVID pandemic. I can only hope to build upon their legacy and set the stage for continued success. Service to the membership of AIA Central NJ Section remains our Board’s mission and guiding principle.

I take great inspiration from our members. Our Section is a vibrant and diverse community, enriched by a broad spectrum of backgrounds, educational experiences, and professional paths. As President, I am committed to unlocking the full potential of our collective strength by inviting more members out of their offices and into the events our dedicated volunteers organize, sponsor, and promote. Through these connections, we can spark new ideas, strengthen professional bonds, and create the momentum that will carry our Section forward. This commitment to deeper engagement, especially in supporting our emerging professionals, will guide my efforts as Section President this year.

When I speak with our members, I am consistently impressed by the richness of our shared history. From the evolution of long-standing firms to our stalwart sole practitioners and small offices to our many and varied connections to our business and development communities as well as our connections with our great institutions and local and regional government leadership.

In many ways, our Section benefits from our size. We are just right. Large enough to include a wide array of firm types and sizes, as well as a strong representation in related fields of development, institutions and specialist consultancy. Yet we are small enough to truly know one another, and cross pollinate ideas about design, practice and the meaning of what we do.

Expanding what we can offer to a wider group, to truly reach our membership in new ways that promote their professional advancement, support their business goals, and enrich their lives professionally and personally will be at the forefront of our efforts this year.

Why do this? Why extend local involvement beyond the collection of dues and the provision of Continuing Education credits?  Because building community leads to more sustainable outcomes. Meaningful engagement cultivates the next generation of mentors and leaders. Uplifting and celebrating our members ensures that a durable spirit of camaraderie will live on and inspire others to engage and build upon what our small but dedicated group have accomplished over the past 6 years as well as in the past 100 years of our Section's history.

Thank you for taking the time to read this message. I hope you find it meaningful, and I look forward to seeing you out in the world! 

David J. von Stappenbeck, AIA, NCARB
2026 President, AIA Central NJ