AIA New York (AIANY) and the Center for Architecture have appointed Jesse Lazar as the new executive director of both organizations. Lazar served as interim executive director since February 2023, when former director Benjamin Prosky, assoc. AIA, left the role.
Lazar brings to the position a rich history of leadership at AIA New York and the Center for Architecture. Since 2014, he has led all fundraising and capital campaigns for both organizations, first as development director, and concurrently during his tenure as deputy director for both organizations, from September 2017 until this past winter.
Lazar comes into this role as both organizations embark on new strategic planning processes, with the goals of strengthening and increasing AIANY membership and the value it delivers to architects and other professionals. The organizations will also focus on expanding the Center for Architecture’s offerings, deepening and growing its exhibitions, education programs, public programs, and more.
During this time, Lazar has raised more than $20 million for both organizations, helped to successfully execute the 2018 AIA Conference on Architecture hosted in New York, and was instrumental in establishing several programs and funds, including the Center for Architecture Anniversary Fund, the 2030 Fund, and the CFA Lab program, among others. With a proven track record of driving growth, serving AIANY members, and leading change, Lazar is poised to guide AIA New York and the Center for Architecture into an exciting new phase.
“I’ve worked with Jesse Lazar on and off at the Center for Architecture since 2008,” says Matthew Bremer, AIA, 2023 president, AIA New York; founder and principal, Architecture in Formation. “I also have the mindset that institutions are generally best served by looking outside themselves for fresh leadership and vision, except in exceptional cases. Well, Jesse is simply exceptional. At a time when both AIANY and the Center for Architecture stand well positioned to grow in service to New York, the profession, and the public, Jesse possesses the unique experience, acumen, and tenacity to steer this growth.”
