The AIA convention in Los Angeles exceeded the record books, with more than 25,000 attendees enjoying the cool California air. Members packed the trade show floor, gathered for continuing education sessions, and jammed the Art Mile and other social and artistic venues. Yet when the halls had closed, and the debris had been swept into piles for the landfill, what remains? From this perspective, one person stood out.

On the final Saturday afternoon, the spotlight fell center stage on William McMinn, FAIA, winner of the current Topaz Medallion given jointly by the American Institute of Architects and the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture. First, we recognize the importance of his award. The Topaz deserves greater visibility, given to someone who has “made outstanding contributions to architecture education for at least 10 years, whose teaching has influenced a broad range of students, and who has helped shape the minds of those who will shape our environment.”