Pamela Touschner, AIA, Named American Institute of Architects, California Council President, the Country's Largest Component of the National AIA Organization.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Pamela Touschner, AIA, is the new incoming, 2007 president for The American Institute of Architects, California Council (AIACC), the nation's largest state architectural organization representing more than 10,000 members.

Touschner is a partner with the California-based firm of WWCOT, which provides a full spectrum of architecture and design services. She joined the firm in 1993, and is currently responsible for directing the Palm Springs office and the Inland Empire office in Riverside. Prior to beginning her career, Touschner earned her degree in architecture from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and received her Bachelor of Architecture in 1985.

Touschner has a passion for architecture and public service. She strongly advocates for environmental, sustainable buildings. As a leader of the AIA California Council (AIACC), Pam has built a solid foundation of shared knowledge and a well-honed organizational structure, focusing the Council's efforts on legislative reform and the advancement of the profession through the integration of cutting-edge methods and technologies. Recognizing the role of California as a bellwether for advances in the construction economy, Pam extends the work of AIACC Co representing the largest community of architects in the country Co to benefit the profession nationwide.

Touschner has always been active in civic and public affairs as well as in her community. Her commitment to the growth of the architectural community is also evidenced by her position as Co-chair of the ACE Mentoring Program for the Coachella Valley, which provides opportunities for high school students to investigate careers within the design and construction industries. She has been involved in the AIA since 1984 with her involvement in the American Institute of Architecture Students.

Touschner looks forward to her new position at the AIACC. She states, "The architectural profession has not only allowed me to be involved in the great industry of design and construction, but has also allowed me to serve my community in so many ways. AIACC is dedicated to a public policy agenda that reflects the values of the profession. We are obligated to assume our positions in society and to offer our skills to protect the environment, assure adequate funding for health care and education, and to create greater awareness that leads to healthy and sustainable communities."

A practicing architect for more than 15 years, Touschner has made a significant impact in the profession of architecture. The AIACC congratulates Touschner for her many achievements and welcomes her as the 2007 AIACC President.

The AIACC represents the interests of 10,000 architects and allied professionals in California. Founded in 1944, AIACC's mission supports architects in their endeavor to improve the quality of life for all Californians by creating more livable communities, sustainable designs and quality work environments. Today the AIACC is the largest component of the national AIA organization. For more information, visit www.aiacc.org.