WHAT: The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is hosting an educational discussion for members of Congress, federal agency officials and the media at 5 p.m. on May 15 to provide design and recovery insights from architects who served as responders following hurricanes Maria, Harvey and Irma last year. 

Architects offer a unique perspective—not only to design communities and buildings to withstand disaster—but to analyze structural performance during post-disaster relief work. The panel will cover crucial information for the Senate to understand, especially as they consider the House passed Disaster Recovery Reform Act.

In addition, the National Institute of Building Sciences will present relevant highlights from its  Natural Hazard Mitigation Saves: 2017 Interim Report regarding the economic benefit of governments continuing to publicly fund disaster mitigation efforts.

The event will provide attendees with a better understanding of why designing for resilience is critical and how policy makers should be working with architects at all levels of government to enhance the health and safety of communities before and after disaster strikes.

WHEN: 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, May 15, 2018.

WHERE: AIA National Headquarters and Courtyard, 1735 New York Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20006.

WHO: Members of the media interested in attending the May 15 event should contact John Schneidawind by calling (202) 626-7457 or  Email Contact.

About The American Institute of Architects (AIA)

Founded in 1857,  AIA consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through more than 200 international, state and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business. In addition, the Institute engages civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation, and world.

About the National Institute of Building Sciences

The  National Institute of Building Sciences, authorized by public law 93-383 in 1974, is a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization that brings together representatives of government, the professions, industry, labor and consumer interests to identify and resolve building process and facility performance problems. The Institute serves as an authoritative source of advice for both the private and public sectors with respect to the use of building science and technology.