Roger Schluntz, professor and former dean of The University of New Mexico School of Architecture and Planning, was one of only 10 U.S. delegates representing the American Institute of Architects (AIA) at the XXVII World Congress and Assembly of the International Union of Architects (Union Internationale des Architectes, or UIA).

The Congress was held recently in Seoul, South Korea, with architects spanning the globe convening for the tri-annual event. 

The UIA advocates for architectural design excellence and plays a crucial role in addressing sustainable, healthy communities and environments in areas that include low-income housing, educational facilities and public places. Created in 1948 and based in Paris, the UIA is an international federation of associations of architects.

Through its member organizations encompassing over 120 countries and territories, the UIA represents about 1,300,000 architects worldwide. Officially recognized by United Nations, the UIA undertakes various programs and global initiatives in cooperation with UNESCO and other U.N. affiliates. 

Schluntz also serves as an appointed member of the International Competitions Commission of the UIA, representing Region III (North and South America) on the Commission. Previously, he served on the UIA Scientific Committee in preparation for the UIA Congress and Assembly, held three years ago in Durban, South Africa. 

Throughout his career, Schluntz has provided critical leadership to UNM School of Architecture and the profession in advancing architectural education – through a combination of teaching, scholarship, advocacy, civic activism and mentorship. He has a multi-faceted record of “making things happen”.