2022 Posthumous Legacy Award
In addition to being a licenced architect and certified planner, Laura dedicated her life to uplifting her communities as an educator, advocate and mentor. Laura graduated from the University of Virginia with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture in 1985. Later, she completed two Masters programs in both Architecture and City and Regional Planning at Ohio State University.
For more than 20 years, Laura advanced design in Columbus. She served on the German Village Commission, was a Planner at The Ohio State University, a Director at the Neighborhood Design Center, and was active in AIA Columbus serving on the Board of Directors.
Most recently, Laura served as the Director of Planning at San Diego State University, where she was responsible for campus strategic and master plan management, capital program development, CEQA Actions, facilities planning, and design, and facilities data and records oversight. Laura also collaborated closely with SDSU’s Office of Parking and Transportation to plan for all modes of transportation to and around the campus.
A registered architect and certified planner, Laura helped lead all aspects of the massive SDSU West development, a prominent capital project for the San Diego region.
As President of the San Diego Chapter of the American Institute of Architects in 2021 - Laura Shinn championed climate action and equity & diversity in the profession. She served as the Chair of AIA San Diego’s Urban Design Committee and had been instrumental in that group’s expansion into a think tank comprising various allied organizations. Laura was also one of the original members of the Women in Architecture knowledge community in San Diego.
Laura's tragic passing in 2021 left shockwaves in our community. While Laura will always be deeply missed, her legacy remains an inspiration and serves as an example of a lifetime of passion and service to the built environment and the communities they serve.
Join us as we celebrate the life & legacy of Laura V Shinn, AIA, AICP at the 2022 Lifetime Achievement & Young Architect of the Year Awards on November 16th.
