Architect Michael Graves to be inducted into the N.J. Hall of Fame

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (March 29, 2010) -- Architect Michael Graves of Princeton, N.J., is being inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF).

Graves was among 15 elected to the Class of 2010 by the East Rutherford, N.J.-based NJHOF, with the others including legends and luminaries ranging from jazz great Count Basie to President Woodrow Wilson.

The Class of 2010 was announced by then Governor-elect Chris Christie in December. The impressive list also includes music legends Les Paul and Frankie Valli, feminist Alice Paul and baseball pioneer Larry Doby, as well as movie stars Jack Nicholson, Susan Sarandon and Danny DeVito and novelists Judy Blume and Phillip Roth. Rounding out the list are track and field superstar Carl Lewis, Supreme Court Justice William Brennan and Wally Schirra, one of the original Mercury 7 astronauts.

The Class of 2010 will be inducted at a gala red carpet ceremony on Sunday, May 2, at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, N. J.

"This will be a proud moment for AIA-NJ," said Jason Kliwinski, AIA, LEED AP, president of AIA-NJ. "Michael Graves' election to the New Jersey Hall of Fame is an acknowledgement not only of his own extraordinary achievements, but also of the importance to the public of the profession of architecture. We encourage everyone with an interest in architecture and design to join us in celebrating this event."

The American Institute of Architects (AIA), whose membership includes 86,000 licensed architects and associated professionals, is the professional organization that helps architects serve the public's needs and builds awareness of the role of architects and architecture in American society. AIA New Jersey, based in Trenton, N. J., which championed Graves' nomination, is the local chapter of AIA. AIA New Jersey has about 2,000 members in six regional sections.

Graves has been in the forefront of architectural design since he founded his practice in Princeton in 1964. He is an influential theorist, as well as a diversified and prolific designer and an esteemed educator. Considered one of the great American architects of current times, he is the recipient of many awards, including the National Medal of Arts and the AIA Gold Medal.

Graves was elected to the NJHOF in the "enterprise" category, which is open to scientists, business leaders, inventors, leaders in medicine, entrepreneurs and philanthropists.

Tickets to the gala ceremony are now available through the New Jersey Performing Arts Center box office (www.njpac.org). Prices range from $30 to $90, depending on seating. Packages that include valet parking, red carpet access, a pre-ceremony reception, prime seating and a post-ceremony party with the inductees are for sale for VIP corporate sponsors and individual donors through the NJHOF Web site at www.njhalloffame.org.

The NJHOF, whose goal is to raise awareness of the historical significance and life-altering nature of the achievements of the residents of New Jersey, is supported entirely by private donations. Corporate sponsors are eligible for the gala VIP packages.

"The previous two ceremonies were terrific shows that were covered by all the major networks," said Don Jay Smith, executive director of the NJHOF. "The living inductees accepted in person, plus there were many surprise guest presenters and great music, including a surprise performance by Bruce Springsteen. We look forward to another terrific celebration in 2010."

About AIA and AIA New Jersey
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is the professional organization that helps architects serve the public's needs and builds awareness of the role of architects and architecture in American society. The organization, which was founded in 1857, recently celebrated its 150th anniversary. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., its 300 plus local chapters represent 86,000 licensed architects and associated professionals. AIA New Jersey, based in Trenton, is the local chapter of AIA. In 2000, it celebrated its 100th anniversary. AIA New Jersey has about 2,000 members in six regional sections. For more information, please visit www.aia-nj.org.

About the New Jersey Hall of Fame
The New Jersey Hall of Fame was created to honor citizens who have made invaluable contributions to society and the world beyond. The Hall of Fame reinforces the message to children that they can and should strive for excellence in any endeavor of their choosing. By presenting significant and powerful role models and teaching young people about the voting process, the Hall of Fame is a source of learning, inspiration and hope for children. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Web site at www.njhalloffame.org.

About Michael Graves & Associates and Michael Graves Design Group
Michael Graves has been in the forefront of architecture and design since founding his firm in 1964. Today, the practice comprises two firms: Michael Graves & Associates (MGA), which provides master planning, architecture and interior design services, and Michael Graves Design Group (MGDG) which specializes in product design, graphic design, and branding services. Combined, they employ approximately 85 people in offices in Princeton, New Jersey and New York City. The services provided by the two firms are highly integrated and support a continuum among architecture, interiors and furnishings. Michael Graves and the firms have received nearly 200 awards for design excellence, including the National Medal of Arts and the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal, the highest award bestowed upon an individual. In 2007, Michael Graves received the Courage Award from the National Courage Center and the Health and Design Award from the Paralyzed Veterans of America, both awards recognized his outstanding contributions on behalf of people with disabilities and his leadership in the creation of innovative medical devices. www.michaelgraves.com.