American Institute of Architects Elevates
Rainy Hamilton Jr., FAIA, NOMA, local architect,

to the College of Fellows

AIA Fellowship Recognizes Significant Contributions to Profession of Architecture and Society

For immediate release:

February, 2012 – The 2012 Jury of Fellows from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) elevated, Rainy Hamilton Jr., FAIA, NOMA, local architect and AIA member to its prestigious College of Fellows, an honor awarded to members who have made significant contributions to the profession.

The Fellowship program was developed to elevate those architects who have made a significant contribution to architecture and society and who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession.  Election to fellowship not only recognizes the achievements of architects as individuals, but also their significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level. Out of a total AIA membership of over 80,000, there are fewer than 2,700 distinguished with the honor of fellowship and honorary fellowship.

Rainy Hamilton is a native Detroiter and graduate of the University of Detroit-Mercy School of Architecture.  Rainy established his own Detroit-based architectural firm as a solo practitioner in 1993.  Since that time, Hamilton Anderson Associates (HAA) has grown to include partner, Kent Anderson, landscape architect, and over 65 full-time employees. Hamilton Anderson’s mission is to contribute to the positive evolution of urban environments and progressive social cultures. With offices in Detroit, Las Vegas and New Orleans, the firm has been active in the rebuilding of the economic and physical fabric of these communities, working on such projects as the Detroit School of Arts, Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority Terminal Building, Woodward/M1 Light Rail and the Detroit Works Plan.

Rainy’s dedication to his profession is illustrated by his activities in the professional arena.  In 1999, he was appointed by Governor John Engler to serve on the Michigan Board of Architects, and in 2000 he was appointed to serve on the Michigan Board of Land Surveyors.  Rainy became President of the Detroit Chapter of the American Institute of Architects in 2001, the first African American to serve in this position. Rainy currently serves as president of the Detroit Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA).

All 2012 Fellows will be honored at an investiture ceremony at the 2012 National AIA Convention and Design Exposition in Washington, D.C. Rainy will be honored with three other AIA Michigan members.

Hamilton Anderson Associates is a Detroit headquartered, minority-owned design firm with over 65 professionals in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, urban design and interior design. www.hamilton-anderson.com

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