WASHINGTON, D.C. – Burt Hill, an international architecture and design firm, announces today that Harry Gordon, FAIA, the firm’s chairman, chief operating officer and founding member of The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Committee on the Environment (COTE), has received the United States Green Building Council’s (USGBC) coveted 2008 Leadership Award.  The prestigious award, presented to Mr. Gordon and all the founding members of COTE, honored the team’s tireless commitment to making green building central to the AIA’s mission.  In addition, the founding members also received a Presidential Citation from AIA president, Marshall Purnell, FAIA.  

The award, presented at Greenbuild 2008, honored Harry Gordon and all the early members of the AIA COTE for planting the seeds for the founding of the USGBC.  The award also highlights individuals, like Mr. Gordon, whom have helped improve awareness of the green building movement throughout the United States.   

Since joining the firm in 1974, Mr. Gordon has been responsible for the development of energy-efficient, environmentally-responsive solutions for a full range of clients, and has been active in promoting sustainable design within the building industry.  He is a nationally-recognized expert in “green building” design, and several of his projects are among the American Institute of Architects “Top Ten Green Buildings.”   

Burt Hill’s Chief Executive Officer, Peter Moriarty, said, “Harry absolutely embodies the attributes and innovative spirit of a green building leader.  Over his 35 years with Burt Hill, his philosophy and leadership have encouraged our staff to explore sustainable solutions to the building and design challenges faced by this industry.”