On Saturday, April 22nd, AIA Peconic, a local chapter of the American Institute of Architects, hosted its annual Design Awards Celebration at the Ross School in East Hampton. This year, in addition to honoring architects for projects in the region, AIA Peconic selected Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (D-Sag Harbor) as its first Community Award recipient. This recognition is awarded to a non-architect person and/or organization who has made a meaningful impact on the built environment of the region. Recipients of this award prioritize values in line with those of the AIA, including sustainability, diversity, equity, access and inclusion.