AIAS Opens New Chapter at American University in Dubai

On February 20th 2013 the AIAS opened its second chapter in the UAE at the American University in Dubai's Department of Architecture.

Matthew A. Barstow President of the American Institute of Architect Student, Dr. Nabyl Chenaf Dean of the School of Architecture, Art and Design, Dr. Georges Kachaamy, AIA International Assoc., AIA Middle East Director of Continuing Education, and a Professor at AUD's Department of Architecture and Thierry Paret, AIA Director of the AIA International Region and Past President of the AIA Middle East attended the wonderful occasion held in AUD’s campus located in Dubai. President Barstow presented the official charter to Dr. Chenaf and senior members of the university’s faculty.

President Matthew A. Barstow addressed the students explaining the history, purpose and benefits of being a member of the AIAS. The student’s show of enthusiasm is a precursor to what we expect will be a very active and successful chapter.

The new chapter will provide a forum to develop the architectural leaders of tomorrow providing an avenue to having greater cultural exchanges and communication with their AIAS counterparts in the USA and the region. The AIA Middle East Chapter is proud to assist AIAS and AUD in making this association possible. Thierry Paret commented that the AIA hopes that upon graduation AIAS student members will make the natural transition to the AIA and remain involved in this great architectural discourse. He further noted that the practice of architecture has truly changed; this is an example of how borders have been blurred through global practice and greater collaboration between architects from different countries and backgrounds.

Inaugural members signed the first newly designed charter and potential chapter officers posed for a picture with President Barstow, Georges Kachaamy, Alex Albani and Thierry Paret.