On September 16, the 2025 AIBC Induction and Retirement Ceremony took place at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. More than 210 individuals were in attendance, including inductees, retirees, and their guests. The annual event recognizes new Architects AIBC and Architectural Technologists AIBC, as well as Retired Architects AIBC. Since the 2024 ceremony, over 200 individuals became registered with the AIBC, and almost 25 retired from the profession.
The ceremony began with the procession of the inductees. The emcee for the evening was AIBC CEO and Registrar Mark Vernon. Following his opening remarks, AIBC Board Chair Sean Rodrigues Architect AIBC addressed retirees and inductees, extending the Board’s best wishes and hearty congratulations. He shared insight into the registration journey of the inductees, and emphasized the importance of getting involved with the profession through volunteering. He then led the architect inductees through a recitation of the Architect’s Declaration.
As per tradition, a recently retired architect presented a Charge to inductees. This year, Donald Hazleden Retired Architect AIBC led the address:
“So, what lies ahead, and what are you charged with accomplishing? Hopefully I can impart some wisdom on this matter… I will sum up my entire speech in four words, “Rise to the occasion”.
– Charge excerpt from Don Hazleden Retired Architect AIBC
Newly registered Architect AIBC Grace Aaraj provided the Response:
“And as architects, that is exactly what we are called to do: to rise to the occasion. Professionally, it represents a commitment: to uphold the standards of this profession, and to keep learning, every single day.
As we humbly step into this profession together, let’s remember: we’re not only building structures – we’re building trust, connections, and communities. That is our charge. That is our privilege.
– Charge Response excerpt from Grace Aaraj Architect AIBC
