2025 AIA WISCONSIN GOLDEN AWARD WINNER

"Russell’s passion for architecture extends far beyond himself or any organization. His distinguished career is marked by leadership, involvement, and service to AIA, advancing our profession and inspiring young architects. Russell has been a steadfast advocate for the profession through AIA, NCARB, and IDP/AXP, championing licensure for emerging architects."
- Cory A. Scheidler, AIA (Nominator)

Russell LaFrombois, AIA, is recognized with the 2025 Golden Award—AIA Wisconsin’s highest honor—for his extraordinary leadership, mentorship, and service to the profession of architecture. Over a career spanning four decades, Russell has been a dedicated advocate for licensure, a mentor to hundreds of emerging professionals, and a committed voice for advancing architectural practice both in Wisconsin and nationally.

From 1999 to 2023, Russell served as Wisconsin’s State Coordinator for the AIA/NCARB Architectural Licensing Advisors Program, guiding future architects through the transition from the Intern Development Program (IDP) to the current Architectural Experience Program (AXP). During this time of significant change, he remained a steady and deeply knowledgeable presence, providing accurate, timely, and personalized support to aspiring architects across the state. His expertise became well known beyond Wisconsin—he was a nationally respected resource on licensure issues and an influential figure within the NCARB community. His ability to demystify the complex process of becoming a licensed architect made him a trusted advisor not only for local candidates, but also for students and professionals across the country.

In addition to his licensing advocacy, Russell has held leadership roles with the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) as a member of the national board of directors and later served on the AIA Wisconsin Board of Directors. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee School of Architecture and Urban Planning (SARUP), he earned his Master of Architecture in 1985, was awarded the Alpha Rho Chi Medal, and completed European studies in Paris and Barcelona. He later returned to SARUP as an adjunct professor, where he helped shape the next generation of architects through teaching and organizing Architect Registration Exam (ARE) preparation sessions.

In 2002, Russell founded his own practice, Russell E. LaFrombois, III, Architects, where he continued to model his professional values through thoughtful, purpose-driven design. Throughout his career, he has remained guided by principles of sincerity, vision, meaning, passion, and compassion—both in his design work and in his service to others. His impact on the profession is evident not only in his built work, but in the careers he has helped shape and the professional community he has strengthened.