The Beginnings, Early Activities, Years of Growth, A New Chapter

Years of Growth
     The creators set the pattern for today's organization. They began the monthly program meetings that have continued without interruption. They established the practice of serving the public and the profession that has characterized the group for over 50 years.
     In 1960, Howard R. Lane (later FAIA) led the Valley architects into formal association with the AIA as the San Fernando Valley District of the Southern California Chapter, with a seat on the Chapter board. He later served as president of both the Southern California Chapter and the California Council. As the growth of the region caused the creation of new chapters, the Southern California Chapter became the Los Angeles Chapter in 1977, and the Valley became a "Section" of the Chapter.
     By the 1980s, the Valley had become more than a residential suburb, and the Valley architects had grown in number and stature. A movement was led by Joe Jordan, AIA, president in 1984 and 1985 (and who had served as president in 1955 and 1961), to form an independent Chapter of the AIA. Under his leadership and that of his successors, the Valley architects commenced a successful campaign to prove their need and ability to be a separate chapter.
     AIA officials from Washington, D.C., conducted a fact-finding visit to the Valley, and members traveled to Washington. All of the officers and board members made presentations about the group's activities. In the end, the AIA was convinced.

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The Beginnings, Early Activities, Years of Growth, A New Chapter