Nov 29, 2023 _ news

Benita Nartey Recognized with AIA Pennsylvania’s Associate Award

Congratulations to GBBN’s Benita Nartey! Benita was recently honored with the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Pennsylvania’s Associate Award.

This recognition honors an AIA Pennsylvania Associate Member who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, creativity, and significant contributions to their communities, the profession of architecture, and the AIA.

Known for asking questions and inviting more stakeholders to the table, Benita strives to ensure that her projects maximize benefits for the clients and communities she serves. Benita also looks beyond projects. As a student at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), she worked with CMU NOMAS (National Organization of Minority Architecture Students) to advocate for better representation amongst the architecture faculty. She continues to work toward a more inclusive profession by participating in NOMA Pittsburgh’s Project Pipeline, which introduces minority students to the practice of architecture in junior high and high school.

“I’m motivated by the possibility of change,” Benita says. “Even if it’s small, even if I don’t personally benefit from it… it’s rewarding to see changes that I’ve helped initiate begin to add up. I think architecture can help create a better world for future generations, so that’s what my work focuses on.”

“Benita is a thoughtful designer who employs equal parts creativity and tenacious research to the benefit of our nonprofit and higher education clients. She also gives back to the community outside of project work,” observes GBBN Principal, Matthew Plecity, who works with her in Pittsburgh. “AIA Pennsylvania couldn’t have picked a more deserving person to celebrate.”