AIA Rochester Names Barbara Burke, Associate AIA, 2025 Mentor of the Year
The Rochester Chapter of The American Institute of Architects (AIA Rochester) has named Barbara Burke, Associate AIA, their 2025 Mentor of the Year!
As a Project Associate with 12 years of experience at LaBella, Barbara represents the design team at client and construction meetings and interviews, pursues new work, develops and coordinates design documents from schematics through construction, performs construction administration, problem-solves on-site, and coordinates with all engineering disciplines to deliver a cohesive product.
She serves as the Director of Education for AIA Rochester and Program Director and Vice President of the ACE Mentor Program of Rochester. It is through these—and many other—volunteer efforts that Barbara inspires tomorrow’s architects, coordinating dozens of educational initiatives and community outreach activities each year.
AIA Rochester is an organization of nearly 400 active, designated professional and affiliate members that offers community improvement and education programs, networking opportunities, and supports the practice and advancement of architecture in the greater Rochester area.
New this year, the Mentor of the Year Award recognizes a member who has dedicated their time and effort to develop the next generation of architects. The honoree should—beyond a paid role—provide meaningful insight, share experiences and lessons learned, and impart wisdom to those who plan to follow their path.
Barbara was honored at AIA Rochester’s Annual Business Meeting on October 22, 2025. LaBella was also the Presenting Sponsor, and Vice President Bob Steehler presented New Highmark Stadium: Civil Engineering Challenges and Construction Updates for the Largest Construction Project in Western New York.
Congratulations Barbara on this well-earned recognition!