Thomas D. Lonardo, RA, NCARB, of Cranston, Rhode Island, is NCARB's FY26 Region 1 Director. Lonardo is the president of Thomas Lonardo + Associates Architects, a nationally recognized, award-winning design firm he founded in 1990. A licensed architect in seven states and an NCARB Certificate holder since 1992, Lonardo has led his firm to national prominence through thoughtful, client-centered design and visionary leadership.
A graduate of the University of Miami, Lonardo has long balanced his professional practice with impactful service to the profession. He has chaired the Rhode Island Board of Examination and Registration of Architects since 2017, following his service as secretary from 2015 to 2017. In 2023, he was elected chair of NCARB's Region 1, after previously serving as vice chair (2020–2022) and secretary/treasurer (2017–2019). His NCARB service also includes contributions to NCARB’s Professional Conduct Committee, Diversity Collaborative, Responsible Charge Task Force, Regional Realignment Work Group, Policy Advisory Committee, and Regional Leadership Committee—all focused on advancing equity, leadership, and accountability in architecture.
Beyond his professional and regulatory roles, Lonardo remains actively engaged in his community and the broader industry. He serves on the City of Warwick Building Board of Appeals, the Rhode Island Design Professionals/Building Officials Workgroup, and is a neutral arbitrator with the American Arbitration Association. A former professor of architecture for more than 25 years, he continues to mentor students and emerging professionals, guiding them toward licensure and long-term success. Through enduring contributions to practice, education, and governance, Lonardo continues to shape the future of architecture and elevate the profession at every level.