Page Architect Wins Prestigious Award

The practice of architecture is a very rigorous one, beginning with infamous all-nighters in studio classes and continuing as recent graduates who often work full-time while studying for licensing exams. The AIA supports these “emerging professionals” every step of the way, even beyond achievement of accreditation. The organization also honors those who demonstrate professional achievement and leadership in their first 10 years of practice after licensure. Page is very proud of Associate / Design Architect Shelby Blessing, who received the AIA Austin Emerging Professional Award just a year after becoming licensed.

Shelby’s contributions, in partnership with her colleagues and as a leader, were cited by AIA Austin in support of her award. She has served hundreds of hours, from the AIA Austin Design Voice Committee, for which she was Chair, to pro bono design for Community First Village, to the creation and deliverance of the Leadership Collective, to researching and providing a forum for understanding and discussing social justice, homelessness, and gender parity.

It was a very well-deserved recognition for Shelby. The award was presented by her colleague, Page Principal and AIA Austin Chapter President Wendy Dunnam Tita. Shelby was out of the country so her colleague and former Emerging Professional Award recipient, Page Associate Principal / Project Architect Brandon Townsend accepted it on her behalf.

Wendy shared, “Winners of this award exemplify exceptional work and general excellence in the practice of architecture and in the community. The common theme of Shelby’s contributions is a sincere mission to improve the world around her using all available relationships, skills and energies that she can harness.”

Judy Le, a leadership consultant in Houston and president of TakeRoot LLC, lent her support of Shelby’s selection for the award, saying, “True leadership comes from the ability to create change, regardless of authority. Shelby has demonstrated her power to influence. Clearly, Shelby is shaping the future generation of leaders in the field of architecture.”

Congratulations, Shelby!