Architect, Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Partnership (ZGF). BArch, University of Hawaii, 1999. Registered Architect, Washington State 2003. Student Intern, Media Five Limited, Honolulu, HI 1994-1999. Currently a member of the AIA Seattle Honor Awards Committee and the Seattle Architectural Foundation Ideas in Form Committee. Masaru (Mas) has served on the AIA Seattle Honor Awards 2001-2002, the Seattle Architectural Foundation Ideas in Form Exhibit 1999-2003, and was a special contributor to the AIA Seattle Honor Awards 2003. Mas also actively participates on many of ZGF's internal committees to foster mentorship and promote education within the firm, including the Education Committee, Technology Committee, Mentorship Program, and the Young Architects Forum.

The American Institute of Architects is the strongest and most recognized voice for our profession. Through my experience with AIA Seattle, I have learned to appreciate the AIA's role as an advocate for our profession and a forum for issues related to our built environment. My interests in AIA Seattle include supporting the AIA Seattle Plan 2010's universal membership and public outreach initiatives.

As a Director, I would focus on three key initiatives: · Advocate the importance & value of good design in our communities through the various AIA programs - culminating in recognition of design excellence through the AIA Honor Awards Program.
· Reinforce the AIA Seattle Plan 2010's "universal membership" initiative for a diversified membership base.
· Broaden AIA membership by advocating the value of licensure and AIA membership to recent graduates & young practitioners.

I welcome the opportunity to further serve AIA Seattle and the architectural profession.