08 22 06

George W. Haecker, AIA, will be awarded the Harry F. Cunningham
Gold Medal for Architectural Excellence in the State of Nebraska. A
Nebraska architect whose design influence is reflected in projects
throughout the United States, George Haecker's professional career
reveals a comprehensive and deep respect for the historic
architecture of the past coupled with a fresh, lively design attitude to
enhance today's world.

"Mr. Haecker is an admired teacher and role model for many. His
passion for design, combined with his longtime advocacy for the
preservation of our architectural heritage has allowed him to serve as
an exceptional ambassador for both Nebraska and the AIA. We are
very pleased to recognize George W. Haecker for the Harry F.
Cunningham Gold Medal," Edward J. Vidlak, AIA, President, AIA
Nebraska.

The medal commemorates the achievements of Harry F. Cunningham
who took over the Nebraska State Capitol project after the death of
architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue. It was Goodhue's building
design that won the nationwide 1920 contest to determine the look
of the new capitol. Cunningham subsequently established the first
school of architecture at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The Gold
Medal is the highest honor that AIA Nebraska can bestow and is
awarded in recognition of the most distinguished achievement in
architecture or service to the profession of architecture in the State
of Nebraska.

"George's passions in architecture and its heritage have been
demonstrated through his designs and preservation actions over the
past 40 years. Coupled with endless integrity for doing 'the right
thing' to promote and preserve great architecture - locally and
nationally - this passion has resulted in a legacy of inspiration and
quality in the architecture of Nebraska. His truly exceptional career
as an award-winning designer, a civic leader in urban revitalization
and especially as a national leader in Historic Preservation is
demonstrated in the enclosed nomination data. As his contributions
and activities clearly demonstrate, George Woods Haecker AIA serves
as a model and inspiration for all that Harry Cunningham stood for,
and what this award exemplifies - integrity, quality, and passion in
architecture" said nominator Paul Jeffrey, AIA.

George has been practicing architecture since 1963, and is a
Managing Principal with Bahr Vermeer Haecker Architects. Married to
wife Judy for 46 years, they have 2 sons and a daughter, as well as 4
grandchildren.