President Barack Obama has announced his intent to appoint two Harvard Graduate School of Design faculty members to the United States Commission of Fine Arts: Toni L. Griffin (LF ’98), professor in practice of urban planning, and Alex Krieger (MCP ’77), professor in practice of urban design.
The seven-member Commission of Fine Arts is an independent federal agency tasked with advising the President, Congress, and the federal and District of Columbia governments on select matters of design and aesthetics. It was established by Congress in 1910 as a permanent body to advise the federal government on matters pertaining to the arts and national symbols, and to guide the architectural development of Washington, D.C.
Among other interests, the Commission reviews designs proposed for memorials, coins, medals, and new or renovated government buildings. It also supports arts institutions in Washington, D.C. through the National Capital Arts and Cultural Affairs (NCACA) program.
Each member is appointed in service terms of four years apiece. (Krieger is currently completing his first term on the Commission, following appointment in 2012.)
“These fine public servants bring a depth of experience and tremendous dedication to their important roles. I look forward to working with them,” Obama remarked in a White House press release.
To learn more, visit the Harvard Crimson’s coverage.