2025 AD EX Community Cornerstone Recipients: Veletta Forsythe Lill, Hon. AIA and Trinity Park Conservancy
The Gala for Architecture Spotlights our City's Visionaries
The Architecture and Design Foundation, in collaboration with the Dallas Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, proudly presents The Gala for Architecture, an elevated transformed black-tie experience set to inspire guests on Thursday evening, January 9th, 2025. Hosted at the iconic Winspear Opera House, a symbol of architectural excellence and artistic expression, this event promises an unforgettable evening filled with spectacle, entertainment, and elegance.
At the annual gala event, we bestow each organization’s two most distinguished awards – the AD EX Community Cornerstone Award to a community-based organization or individual, and the AIA Dallas Lifetime Achievement Award to an AIA Dallas member.
The AD EX Community Cornerstone Award is awarded to a non-architectural entity or individual in recognition of outstanding contributions that enhance the quality of life by shaping environments and building community. The 2025 Cornerstone Award winners are Trinity Park Conservancy and Veletta Forsythe Lill, Hon. AIA.
Veletta Forsythe Lill, Hon. AIA, believes she has been fortunate to have a front row seat in much of Dallas’ recent development. The founding executive director of the Dallas Arts District, former member of the Dallas City Council and long-time community advocate has played multiple roles in the development of the cultural and physical life of the city and the policy that has guided it. Connecting her passion to action, she has served on more than 25 community boards including serving as the public member of the AIA-Dallas board and past chair of the Architecture and Design Foundation.
\ LEARN MORE
Trinity Park Conservancy is a nonprofit dedicated to the stewardship of Dallas’ largest public green space, the 10,000 acres of the Trinity River. Believing that the river is the natural gathering place for all Dallas residents, the Conservancy is committed to bringing people together to share their ideas, learn more about the possibilities and habitat of the area, and to assist in making it a more accessible space. Trinity Park Conservancy has begun work on Harold Simmons Park, a 250-acre nature park in the heart of Dallas that will transform the city and connect people with nature and each other.
\ LEARN MORE
The Gala for Architecture brings together architects, community leaders, philanthropists, and stakeholders who are shaping a better future for our city. You are invited to step into a world of inspiration and innovation as we celebrate the profound role that design plays in connecting communities, enhancing human engagement, and improving lives.
Under the vision of 2025 co-chairs, Chairs Nunzio DeSantis, FAIA, and Marc DeSantis, AIA, The Gala for Architecture promises a night of captivating experiences. Indulge in culinary delights and bespoke beverages at each tier of the grand staircase. Savor a gourmet meal on the opera house performance stage with its breathtaking chandelier as your backdrop. Dance the night away to the exciting sounds of Emerald City! Create unforgettable moments beyond the evening’s festivities by bidding on luxurious vacation packages.