When Don Miles called me, I thought he either wanted a donation for something or participation in yet another charrette. Well, I was quite surprised, to say the least, with great honor by my peers. I have great appreciation for those of you who try.

When I was a young man growing up in Portland I was fascinated by the work of [Pietro] Belluschi. The way he made architecture was fascinating to me, both in form and detail. That experience planted a desire that I would not act on for some time. Finally at the age of 23 I decided if it did not try architecture I would be sorry for ever. I finished my education at the University of Washington. There at that time the teaching was strictly Modernism. While that approach has be challenged and then reborn, what I learned most was critical thinking. I learned how to look at a problem with an open mind and take advantage of the inherent opportunities. I learned if you listened carefully to what the problem was saying, it would explain itself.

I was fortunate in that I was offered a position of principal in an office before I had my license. It was, however, in a suburban city and I soon missed my urban discussions. So I joined the AIA [Seattle] Design Committee. At that time the committee consisted of Perry Johanson, Paul Thiry, Fred Bassetti and me. I didn't say a word for a year. However, they were very kind to this green bean in their presence.

When I moved to Seattle and formed the firm that would eventually become Hewitt Architects, I was immediately impressed with the immense difference between free standing buildings and urban infill, between site and context. That changed my thinking forever.

In our work, no matter how humble or grand the opportunity, we look for contribution to the public realm. We look for the relationship that will improve the project and its place. I remember a joke in Architectural Record: the client, looking worried, asked the architect if they had to pay for the voids as well as the solids. I had learned that the voids are as important as the solids. We now understand on many levels the benefits of density. Cities provide human connection and a more intelligent use of recourses. It is our responsibility to do it right.

I want to recognize my wife Marcia. She is my moral compass and constant supporter. She understands the design profession which is a great benefit as I continue to practice. Also my partners: Tim Spelman AIA, Paul Shema AIA, Kris Snider ASLA, and Kevin Ryden AIA. We have a small office by today's standards, and we have done some large scale work. The struggle to find the correct solution takes forebearance and commitment.

Thanks to my stepson Chad Wagoner, who interrupted his studies to be with me tonight, and to my dear friend Sarah Skelton who did the same. Brady Wagoner is out of the country and could not be here physically, but is here in spirit.

I would also like to thank AIA Seattle, for it was the programs and opportunities of the Chapter that introduced me to civic contribution and an understanding of big city political structure. That work would eventually lead to Chair of the Seattle Design Commission, where I could watch our profession in action.

This is a profound honor that you have given me. I will keep the Medal close by so that I will be reminded of this great night.

Thank you.