Some breaking news: The AIA has just announced that Paul W. Welch, Jr., Hon. AIA, will serve as the Institute's interim CEO and executive vice president. He starts July 19. He replaces Christine McEntee, who announced in April that she is stepping down.

Welch currently is the executive vice president of the AIA California Council (AIACC). He has served executive roles at the AIACC for nearly three decades, according to a prepared statement from the AIA. "Paul Welch embodies all of the qualities we seek in an effective interim staff executive," stated AIA President George Miller, FAIA. "I know that the AIA will be in the hands of a capable leader whose communication and dedication to the profession of architecture is well documented."

In addition to overseeing AIA National's operating budget, staff, and programs, Welch will manage new initiatives, such as the media partnership with Hanley Wood and implementation of CES Discovery (an online program for managing CE credits), according to the prepared statement. The AIA will continue its national search for a permanent replacement.

"The future of the AIA is important to the future of the architecture profession," stated Welch, "and I will work hard to ensure that the next staff executive steps into their position leading a vibrant and thriving organization."