AIA WV James L. Montgomery Award
James L. Montgomery Award
The James L. Montgomery Award is AIA West Virginia’s highest individual honor, recognizing those whose work and service have made a lasting impact on the architectural profession and the communities it serves.
Named for James L. Montgomery, the first West Virginia architect elevated to Fellowship in the American Institute of Architects, the award reflects a standard of excellence grounded in both professional achievement and meaningful contribution. It honors individuals who have advanced architecture in the state through design, leadership, service, or advocacy.
At its core, this award is about care - care for the built environment, for the profession, and for the people and communities architecture serves.
PURPOSE
The James L. Montgomery Award recognizes individuals whose careers embody the highest ideals of architecture. Recipients represent a commitment not only to design excellence, but to stewardship, leadership, and the long-term betterment of West Virginia’s built environment.
The award may be presented to a practicing or retired architect and may also be awarded posthumously.
CRITERIA
Nominees should demonstrate distinction in one or more of the following areas:
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Outstanding service in architectural education or authorship
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Significant contributions to the advancement of the profession
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Notable public service or community leadership related to the built environment
Recipients are selected based on the depth, consistency, and impact of their contributions over time.
RECOGNITION
The James L. Montgomery Award is presented annually at the AIA West Virginia Design Awards Gala & Scholarship Benefit, where the recipient’s career and contributions are recognized among peers, colleagues, and community leaders.
Recipients:
Francis “Bo” Guffey,
FAIA Emeritus - 2010
Francis “Bo” Guffey, FAIA Emeritus, is recognized for a distinguished career dedicated to advancing the practice of architecture in West Virginia. Through his leadership, professional service, and commitment to the integrity of the profession, he has had a lasting influence on both the built environment and the standards that guide architectural practice in the state.
Guffey’s work reflects a steady commitment to responsible practice, thoughtful design, and the broader role of architects in serving the public good. In addition to his professional contributions, his involvement in regulatory and professional organizations helped shape the framework within which architecture is practiced in West Virginia.
William E. Yoke, Jr.,
AIA Emeritus - 2026
William E. Yoke, Jr., AIA Emeritus, is honored for a career defined by service, mentorship, and a deep commitment to the architectural community in West Virginia. Over decades of practice, his influence has extended well beyond individual projects.
He served for 38 years on the AIA West Virginia Scholarship Committee, helping guide and support generations of architecture students entering the profession. His steady leadership and dedication to education created lasting opportunities for emerging professionals across the state.
Yoke’s legacy is reflected not only in the built work he helped shape, but in the people he mentored, the profession he strengthened, and the community he served with consistency and care.
A Legacy of Impact
More than a single achievement, this award reflects a body of work—and a way of practicing architecture—that demonstrates responsibility, integrity, and purpose.
Recipients of the James L. Montgomery Award represent the enduring influence of architecture done well: thoughtful, contextual, and carried out with care.
ELIGIBILITY
The James L. Montgomery Award recognizes individuals whose careers reflect a sustained commitment to excellence, leadership, and service within the architectural profession and the broader community.
Nominees may be practicing or retired architects and may be considered posthumously.
CRITERIA
Candidates should demonstrate distinction in one or more of the following areas:
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Achievement of architectural excellence through a distinguished body of work
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Outstanding service in architectural education or authorship
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Significant contributions to the advancement of the profession
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Notable public service or community leadership related to the built environment
Particular consideration is given to individuals whose work reflects a long-term commitment to the profession and a meaningful impact on architecture in West Virginia.
HOW TO NOMINATE
Nominations are solicited annually by the AIA West Virginia Executive Committee.
A complete nomination should include:
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Name and credentials of the nominee
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A written narrative outlining the nominee’s qualifications and impact
Supporting information should include:
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Professional history & affiliations
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Notable projects or body of work
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Leadership roles & service to the profession
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Community & civic involvement
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Awards, honors, or recognitions
Submissions should clearly demonstrate how the nominee meets the award criteria and exemplifies the highest ideals of the profession.
SUBMISSION & SELECTION
Nominations are reviewed by the AIA West Virginia Executive Committee or a designated selection body. The recipient is selected based on the overall impact, consistency, and significance of their contributions over time.
The award is presented at the AIA West Virginia Design Awards Gala & Scholarship Benefit.
CONTACT
For additional information about the nomination process, please contact:
Antonia Edwardson, 304-344-987