Meet AIA ‘s 2026 President Illya Azaroff, FAIA
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) inaugurated their 102nd President, Illya Azaroff, FAIA. Azaroff is an architect, geographer with over 30 years experience. He is the founder of +LAB architect and a professor at New York City College of Technology (CUNY). Azaroff holds a Master of Architecture degree from Pratt Institute and bachelor’s degrees in geography and architecture from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. He is recognized internationally for his leadership in disaster response, climate adaptation, resilient design and regenerative planning strategies. Azaroff often works with cities, governing bodies and design teams around the world to build resilient capacity. In his career he frequently receives foreign delegations on behalf of the U.S. Department of State.
Previously, Azaroff served as the 2021 AIA New York state president and on the Strategic Council (2016-2018). He is the founder of DFRR Design for Risk and Reconstruction committee at AIANY (2011-2021).
“Architects are at the forefront of designing buildings and spaces that can withstand nature’s fury,” said Azaroff in his inaugural address. “As AIA President, I will work to ensure architects are empowered to create communities that are better prepared to deal with future disruptions.”
