Celebrating Change: 2025 NCARB Annual Business Meeting

On June 19-22, 2025, members from the 55 U.S. architecture licensing boards convened for the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards’ (NCARB) 2025 Annual Business Meeting. The meeting serves as a forum for NCARB members to elect the incoming Board of Directors, vote on resolutions, and shape the agenda for the Council’s next fiscal year (which begins on July 1).

During the meeting, attendees also had the opportunity to hear keynote remarks from change management expert Rick Maurer, engage in workshops covering a variety of important topics, and receive updates on NCARB’s progress throughout the past year.

Celebrating FY25

On Thursday, FY25 President Kenneth R. Van Tine, NCARB, AIA, LEED AP, reflected on NCARB’s accomplishments over the past year. During his remarks, Van Tine said, “Together we are shaping a future for architectural licensure. Our framework for licensure will be more accessible, better aligned with the expectations of our public and elected officials, and appropriately designed to protect the public health, safety, and welfare.”

Next, attendees heard from keynote speaker Rick Maurer, who explored opportunities to create a culture that supports positive change.

End-of-Year Updates

Attendees received an update on NCARB’s current financial status from Secretary/Treasurer Sylvia Kwan, FAIA, NCARB, NOMA, LEED AP. This report will be available later in 2025 as part of NCARB’s FY25 Annual Report.

NCARB CEO Michael Armstrong provided updates on the organization’s efforts during the past fiscal year—including recent improvements to our programs and services, efforts to gather and act on customer feedback, and opportunities to leverage data to make future-focused decisions.

“When change starts to happen, we can resist or embrace it. As regulators, we have a choice to embrace it and truly experience the new future we hope to see—where multiple pathways are not only present but accepted for all,” said Armstrong.

Preparing for FY26

Incoming FY26 President Edward T. Marley, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP, shared his vision for the organization in the year ahead. During his term, Marley plans to keep the organization paced in a state of evolution, addressing six key themes and opportunities for growth.

“While our primary focus for the next few years is in support of our licensure candidates and certificate holders, we cannot lose sight of the fact that our primary mission is to support our member boards,” said Marley.

Resolutions

During the meeting, members voted on several resolutions—including two that would expand access to international reciprocity. Through an updated agreement with Canada and a new agreement with South Africa, the NCARB Certificate will soon facilitate reciprocity across four continents.

In addition, members passed updates to the NCARB Certification Guidelines, including a resolution that will remove the three-year waiting period between initial licensure and eligibility for the Education Alternative to Certification.