The American Institute of Architects (AIA) gave Rona Rothenberg, FAIA, its 2020 Thomas Jefferson Award for Public Architecture. The Thomas Jefferson Award for Public Architecture recognizes architects, public officials or other individuals who design distinguished public facilities and advocate for design excellence.
By applying her unique background and affinity for justice, Rothenberg has distinguished herself as a servant who advances public architecture, as she said, “from the inside out.” Rothenberg has been a guiding force in shaping California’s public realm through her work as the senior program manager for the state’s courthouse building program. Her leadership has influenced institutional campuses and buildings across the country, demonstrating that public architecture can improve the lives of citizens who rely on it.
Rothenberg’s early career was focused on legal research and teaching, after which she earned her Master of Architecture degree from the University of California at Berkeley. She spent time in private practice focused on educational, office and military projects. She spearheaded the development of a 57-courthouse capital outlay plan. Since becoming lead senior capital program manager at the Judicial Council of California in San Francisco, Rothenberg has overseen two capital campaigns and has worked with architectural firms to deliver work for the judiciary. Rothenberg chartered the program’s funding, structure, and staffing to create the court architecture program. For more information, visit www.aia.org/press-releases/6269506-rona-rothenberg-faia-receives-aias-2020-th.
