The American Institute of Architects announced today that its executive vice president and CEO Christine McEntee is stepping down as of July 23, 2010.

She is to become executive director of the American Geophysical Union, a non-profit organization of geophysicists. The group has 50,000 members from over 135 countries.

An executive recruiting firm will work with a search committee to be formed by the AIA Board¹s Executive Committee to find a new chief executive.

"Over the past four years, Chris McEntee significantly enhanced recognition by policy makers, the media, and others that design matters, especially in the areas of sustainability and livable communities," said AIA President George H. Miller, FAIA, said in a statement issued by the institute today.

"Chris is embracing an opportunity of great personal and professional interest and we wish her every future success."