Washington, DC – July 24, 2017 – To launch the next phase of its commitment to transformation announced in 2016, the National Architectural Accrediting Board, Inc. (NAAB) has named Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA, as its Interim Executive Director. Dreiling will begin her tenure on July 25, 2017. She will focus on elevating the efficiency and effectiveness of the accreditation of architectural education programs, while deepening the NAAB’s strategic relationships with the collateral architectural organizations and other key industry stakeholders.
“Helene was the obvious choice to fill this position based on her well-established and widely-recognized record of strengthening every organization she has led,” said NAAB President Judith Kinnard, FAIA. “Her experience is vast and varied, and together with the NAAB Board of Directors, she will ensure that our processes are modernized and streamlined to make for an improved experience for schools seeking accreditation.”
Dreiling recently completed concurrent terms as Executive Vice President of AIA Virginia and as Executive Director of The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design, both in Richmond. Her career in architecture has taken a largely non-traditional path, with much of her service centered in the not-for-profit realm.
An active volunteer in the American Institute of Architects (AIA) for more than 25 years, Dreiling was honored to serve as AIA President in 2014. Her particular expertise in cultural transformation and change management for non-profits will be of special and direct benefit to the NAAB and its constituents.
Dreiling noted, “My immediate attention will be focused on determining what can be accomplished in the short-, medium- and long-term to refresh our methods and operations to enhance the accreditation process. This effort is vital in preparing the architects of tomorrow to successfully practice within our rapidly-changing profession.”
