The Young Architect Award is the industry's highest honor for emerging architects, spotlighting designers who have displayed "exceptional leadership" and made a significant impact within the industry. Graham was one of 17 architects in the country to earn the Young Architect honor in 2023.
"Brien is a talented, passionate architect working to improve his community," said LPA CEO Wendy Rogers. "He is the ideal of a young architect focused on giving back and elevating the conversation on equity, diversity, and inclusion."
Graham is the third architect from LPA recently honored as a Young Architect, following Design Director Ozzie Tapia in 2020 and Project Architect Melody Tang in 2022.
Working out of LPA's Dallas studio, Graham has led the design efforts on several school and recreation projects in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area, including the recent renovation of the Broughton Park & Recreation Center, Casa View Elementary School, and the New Victor Hexter Elementary School. He is an active leader in the community, helping shape the industry response to the challenge of creating a more equitable and diverse industry, working with students and communities to develop new opportunities for architects from underrepresented communities.
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"I am honored to be recognized by my peers in the AIA," Graham said. "It's humbling being amongst a great group of colleagues who are making an effort to improve the profession, working towards common goals, and shaping society."
Graham is the current Treasurer, and past President of the DFW chapter of the National Association of Minority Architects. He recently chaired the Texas Society of Architects' EDI Committee and works on a variety of initiatives with AIA Dallas, typically focused on supporting young architects.
On a national scale, Graham is one of 18 architects in the country who participated and recently graduated from the inaugural class of the AIA Leadership Academy, designed to prepare the next generation of architects. He also serves as the Texas representative to the AIA Strategic Council, where he will help implement the inclusion of equity and representation in the strategic plan.
"Brien takes a leadership role in everything he does," said LPA Dallas Studio Director Craig Drone. "He is an enthusiastic mentor, leader, and inspiration for future architects."
The Young Architect Award recognizes leaders that are making a difference in the industry. The term "young architect" has no reference to the age of the nominee. Any architect who has been licensed to practice architecture fewer than 10 years by the submission deadline is eligible.
Architects are nominated by AIA chapters, Fellows, Knowledge Communities, members of the national AIA Board of Directors, and Strategic Councils.
LPA is a multi-discipline firm focused on collaboration, inclusion, and an integrated design process that connects building performance and design excellence. The firm's specialties include, architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, MEP engineering, structural engineering, civil engineering, master planning, adaptive reuse, signage and graphics, sustainability, lighting design, technology, integrated design, and sustainable design.
