Robert J. Schaeffner Elevated to the College of Fellows of the AIA

The American Institute of Architects has elevated Robert J. Schaeffner to its College of Fellows, an honor that recognizes architects who have made a notable contribution to the profession and to society. Election to Fellowship not only recognizes the achievements of the architect as an individual, but also honors before the public and the profession a model architect who has made a significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level. Bob was recognized under the Practice category for the practice of academic science buildings (the others are Design, Organizational Leadership, Government/Industry and Service). Read the full list of this year’s fellows.

Bob’s 33 years of prototypical and distinguished architecture have profoundly influenced the academic science practice, anticipating pedagogical changes and the need for interdisciplinary research while establishing new standards for sustainability and design excellence.

For decades, his projects have received recognition through national and local award programs, technical articles and national planning publications including over 25 local and national AIA awards, two R&D Magazine Lab of the Year Awards and two AIA/Society for College and University Planning Awards. His contributions to this building type on a national level have influenced not only the practice at Payette, but they have also influenced numerous architects across the country that practice this complex building typology.

Jim Collins sponsored Bob’s submission in his letter:
“Bob has, for quite some time, been the consummate architect: articulate, giving, passionate about serving the needs of the people who occupy his buildings, considerate and ever attentive to his clients. He is an inspirational leader, a rigorous craftsman and a disciplined manager. He has succeeded in all the complex and sometimes contradictory requirements of an advanced architect, and always the success is driven by his commitment, talent and passion for the planning and design of academic research and teaching facilities.”

Jim Barnes (Professor of Architecture, RISD) wrote in his reference letter:
“It is a pleasure and a unique personal reward to see a former student achieve the success he has had at Payette. This is especially so in those demanding building types requiring extraordinary skill and professional stamina: building programs in the sciences, types where design and technology collide under intense circumstances.”

Bob will receive his Fellowship medal during the Investiture of Fellows Ceremony at the AIA 2015 National Convention and Design Exposition in Atlanta, Georgia. Congratulations to Bob!