WASHINGTON, DC.- The American Institute of Architects (AIA) today issued the following statement on the passing of George M. White, FAIA, who served as the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) from 1971 until 1995. The statement should be attributed to AIA President Clark Manus, FAIA.

“As the Architect of the Capitol for nearly a quarter-century, George White demonstrated the value of an architect’s thinking and judgment in everything he did. His accomplishments are far too many to list here, but include the restoration of the West Front of the Capitol, the restoration of the Old Senate Chamber and the development of the Capitol Master plan.

“As further proof of his commitment to the Capitol, George White insisted that any individual who occupied the AOC office must be a professional architect. His position was that architecture is the only construction discipline that concerns itself with aesthetics, and it was this attribute that George White felt was so necessary in any occupant of that office.

“We are glad that since George White’s tenure, Congress and successive presidents have continued the tradition of keeping the AOC a practicing architect. We mourn his passing, and express our heartfelt condolences to his family.”