Citizen Architect: Jeff Raser, AIA
Jeff Raser, AIA, communication director for the Congress For The New Urbanism – Midwest and owner of CUDA Studio
What is the purpose of the organization that you are involved with?
The Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) is a national organization which advocates for the development and redevelopment of vibrant walkable communities where people and businesses of all types can thrive and prosper. CNU Midwest is the regional chapter of CNU (which covers all or part of 7 states) that advocates for the equitable redevelopment of the region including our big cities, small towns, and the rural spaces between.
Why did you choose to get involved?
As an architect who specializes in the urban spaces between buildings, I am passionate about multi-modal connectivity, reclaiming public spaces for people, and the equitable development of human-focus places.
How does your experience as an architect contribute to the organization?
My experience in providing urban design and community planning services gives me an understanding of the many hurdles communities have when seeking to rebuild neighborhoods into pedestrian-friendly places with cherished gathering spaces.
How has serving in this role benefited you as an architect?
By being on the board of a regional organization, I get to discover what challenges confront other communities and what strategies have been employed to overcome those challenges.
How much time and effort does your role require?
As Communications Director, I seek out and gather valuable information to disseminate. Since our organization covers all or part of seven states, communication is very important to ensure we are providing value to our members and the communities they seek to improve.
Would you encourage other architects to get involved in a similar organization?
Yes. Architects amass a wealth of knowledge, which will be mostly wasted if we use it only on behalf of our paying clients.
Are you a Citizen Architect? Please let us know by emailing julie@aiacincinnati.org.
Are you interested in getting more involved with your community? Check out one of AIA Cincinnati’s Local Advocacy Working Group meetings (second Thursday each month at 8:30 am on Zoom).
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