American Cedar & Millwork Announces Opening of New Bethesda Showroom
Bethesda Showroom Now Open! American Cedar & Millwork is proud to announce the opening of our new 4,000+ sq. ft. North Bethesda showroom—now open and available as a resource for the Maryland AIA community.
05/15/2026
A Requiem for Certificate of Merit Statutes in Federal Court
In January 2026, the US Supreme Court issued a decision raising questions about the enforceability of certificates of merit in federal court. The key lesson for design professionals: what the legislature giveth, the legislature or courts may taketh away.
05/11/2026
Wiencek + Associates Joins Torti Gallas + Partners Under the Torti Gallas Flag
TG+P, an award-winning DC-based firm with a passion for architecture, urban design, planning, and placemaking, is excited to announce the acquisition of Wiencek + Associates Architects + Planners (W+A), effective May 1, 2026.
05/11/2026
Foundation / Give
Investing in the Future of Architecture: Support the Potomac Valley Architecture Foundation
The future of architecture depends on how well we nurture it today.
The Potomac Valley Architecture Foundation (PVAF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization affiliated with and supported by the American Institute of Architects Potomac Valley Chapter. The Foundation’s mission is simple yet powerful: to advance good design and sustainability through outreach.
Through strategic investment in students, emerging professionals, and community engagement, PVAF is helping shape the next generation of architects—and strengthening the profession for years to come.
Supporting the Next Generation
PVAF is committed to building a strong pipeline into the profession by:
- Providing collegiate scholarships to architecture students
- Supporting Emerging Professional activities
- Advancing mentoring opportunities, including AIAPV’s Emerging Professional Awards Program (EPAP)
- Launching AIAPV’s new Emerging Professional and Student Design Competitions
- Promoting licensure as a pathway to professional excellence
- Inspiring young minds through K–12 STEM programs and architecture-focused activities
From introducing K–12 students to the power of design, to helping graduates transition into practice, to celebrating the achievements of newly licensed architects, PVAF invests at every stage of the journey.
Advancing Design & Sustainability
At its core, PVAF believes that high-quality, sustainable design improves lives and strengthens communities. By supporting outreach and educational initiatives, the Foundation helps elevate public awareness about the value architects bring to the built environment—and the importance of resilient, sustainable solutions.
We Rely on Your Support
The Foundation’s work is only possible because of the generosity of our community. As a charitable organization, PVAF depends on public support to fund scholarships, programming, competitions, and outreach efforts.
We invite you to:
- Make a tax-deductible donation
- Participate in or sponsor our Annual Golf Outing in May
- Share our mission with colleagues, clients, and community partners
Your support directly impacts students discovering architecture for the first time, emerging professionals advancing their careers, and communities benefiting from thoughtful, sustainable design.
Together, we can ensure a vibrant and resilient future for architecture in the Potomac Valley and beyond.
