As I come to the close of my term as President of the California Architectural Foundation (CAF), I want to reflect briefly on the progress we’ve made and share why I am so optimistic about what lies ahead.
In 2023, Mary Follenweider, FAIA and I were asked to help reinvigorate CAF, and that effort quickly grew into a broader, Regent-supported initiative to strengthen the Foundation’s role in advancing our profession. With the support of a deeply committed Board of Directors and an energized group of Regents, CAF has re-established momentum, clarity of purpose, and a renewed culture of philanthropy in service of students and emerging professionals.
The results of that reinvigoration are tangible. Since 2023, CAF has received over 700 gifts and raised $356,500, a reflection of both renewed confidence in the Foundation and the generosity of a growing and increasingly diverse donor base. This year alone, CAF awarded $57,000 in scholarships, directly supporting students, emerging professionals, and future architects at critical moments in their journeys. These investments are complemented by the continued growth of two cornerstone programs: capX, the California Architectural Practice Experience program, which strengthens the bridge between education and practice through mentorship and real-world exposure, and the Architecture by the Book education program, which introduces young students, often for the first time, to architecture as a possible and exciting future.
Looking ahead to 2026, we aim to double our scholarship awards from 2025 levels and continue expanding both capX and Architecture by the Book to reach more students, firms, and communities across California. This moment also marks a leadership transition. As my term concludes, I am confident that CAF is well-positioned for its next chapter under the leadership of our incoming President, Scott Gaudineer, AIA, who will build on a strong foundation of engagement, impact, and shared commitment. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has helped bring CAF to this point, and I look forward to continuing my work with the Foundation as past president as we strengthen CAF’s role as a vital, enduring support for the profession we care so deeply about.
As we approach year-end, I invite you to consider supporting CAF’s work in whatever way feels right to you. For some, this may include making a year-end contribution or, if applicable, a tax-efficient gift such as a Qualified Charitable Distribution. Every contribution, large or small, helps ensure we can continue investing in future architects and expanding access to opportunity across our profession. Donate here.
With sincere appreciation,
Michael Patrick Porter, AIA
2025 President, California Architectural Foundation
