Gruen Associates Partner Debra Gerod has been inaugurated as the AIA California 2020 President. 

According to the AIA California website, Gerod aims to focus on expanding the group's efforts to push the state to adopt proposed Zero Code measures that would mandate emissions-free buildings across the state. 

According to the AIA California website, Gerod made the following statement at her inauguration: “This is a pivotal time where architects are in a position to show leadership in the climate action arena. I wanted to be part of an influential conduit such as the AIA CA. I can think of no better group to work with.” 

Gerod succeeds AIA California 2019 President Ben Kasdan of the firm KTGY. 

Voicing support for Gerod as she embarks on her year-long journey at the top of the state's AIA group, Kasdan stated, "Debra Gerod, FAIA, represents AIA California and the architectural profession in such a quintessential way. She leads by example with tactful wisdom, seemingly effortless grace, and just the right amount of wonderfully dry humor. I am really excited to see her influence on the organization as we continue to take meaningful climate action in 2020.”

At the national level, South Carolina architect L. Jane Frederick took the helm of the American Institute of Architects organization late last year as the group's 2020 President.