Ayars elevated to AIA College of Fellows

April 6, 2021 // Announcements, Recognition

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has elevated Perspectus co-founder Bill Ayars, FAIA, FACHA to its prestigious College of Fellows, AIA’s highest membership honor. The fellowship program was developed to elevate those architects who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession and made a significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level. Less than three percent of the architecture profession achieve AIA Fellowship.

Throughout his career, Bill has demonstrated unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in his community through high quality design, professional development, and service. As co-founder and Managing Principal of Perspectus Architecture, Bill has advanced healthcare design for top healthcare systems here in Northeast Ohio and proven his dedication to the profession.

Principal Elizabeth Corbin Murphy, FAIA remarks “what is incredible to me, is the heart and soul that emanates from Bill’s self-described process – Dream, Plan, Journey, Focus, Celebrate – is so applicable to everyday challenges.”

Co-Managing Principal Mike Lipowski, AIA, ACHA notes that “Bill always sees a design opportunity in every project no matter the size or type, and when it comes to designing for Healthcare, patient experience has always been his top priority.” He brings his personal point of view to healthcare design by sharing his own experiences in therapy settings, his critical eye toward enhancing personal dignity, and his empathetic leadership to reflect a more caring environment through architecture.

Bill has always recognized the need to share expertise and business experience at every level, illustrating his talents go well beyond design. By giving young architects and interns broad experience with complex, high-profile projects, he equips them to continue advancing the design profession. Bill encourages a mindset of lifelong learning and individual growth by tendering employees opportunities to expand their roles at the firm.

Bill’s impact to the community has extended far beyond his firm or professional affiliations. In 2016, Bill established The Emerald Jenny Foundation to bridge the critical gap in access to support resources for people struggling with substance abuse disorders. The team built a website hosting a searchable database of treatment providers, harm reduction programs, homeless shelters, recovery residences, and other organizations that serve people who are struggling with addiction. Bill worked to launch this life-saving recovery tool that, in just 5 years, made a measurable impact on the nation’s fight against addiction. These efforts were recognized at both the state and national level in addressing this crisis.

We are extremely proud of Bill’s leadership, not only within our firm, but across the profession. We offer our continued gratitude and sincere congratulations to Bill on his elevation to the AIA College of Fellows.