The Bulletin Online

Marvin J. Malecha, FAIA, dean of the College of Design, was named the 2003 recipient of the Topaz Medallion for Excellence in Architectural Education by the National Board of Directors of The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA).

The AIA/ACSA Topaz Medallion honors an individual who has made outstanding contributions to architectural education for at least 10 years, whose teaching has influenced a broad range of students, and who has helped shape the minds of those who will shape our environment. The award will be presented at the ACSA Annual Meeting in Louisville, Ky., on March 15 and at the 2003 AIA National Convention in San Diego, Calif. on Thursday, May 8.

In selecting him for the award, the jury commented: "Marvin Malecha has gained significant peer recognition and his efforts are supported by architecture school deans. He championed the practice of using drawing as a method of instruction, and his case studies approach has bridged academia with practice. Marvin manages to keep all areas of education in perspective, and his global bridging is noteworthy. He understands the intrinsic value of international studies and he has displayed vision in that regard."

Malecha's career is characterized by leadership in academic management with attention to the scholarly and reflective aspects of a design education. As a practicing architect, Malecha worked for many years for the well-known architecture firm Stubbins and Associates.

For 12 years prior to his tenure at NC State, Malecha was dean of the College of Environmental Design at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona).

Malecha has served as president of the ASCA and the California Council of Architectural Education as well as vice chair of the AIA/ACSA Council on Architectural Research. Earlier this year, Malecha was recognized as a Distinguished Professor by ACSA, a national distinction that recognizes creative achievement in the advancement of architectural education through teaching, design scholarship, research or service. As a fellow of the AIA, he was instrumental in establishing the Woman's Initiative Task Force as well as the African-American Task Force for Diversity.

He has also served as a member of the National Institute for Architectural Education Teaching Office Task Force, the National Architectural Accrediting Board, and as chair of the steering committee of the AIA Architects in Education Professional Interest Area.

Since 1857, the AIA has represented the professional interests of America's architects. As AIA members, 70,000 licensed architects and allied professionals express their commitment to excellence in design and livability in our nation's buildings and cities.