William Polk FAIA

William M. Polk FAIA (BArch 1958 Cornell) has practiced architecture in Seattle for more than four decades -- with the firm of Waldron, Pomeroy, Polk & Smith and as partner and COO at John Graham and Company, Architects and Engineers, before starting William Polk Associates in 1985. Projects in the Polk portfolio include commercial and institutional projects throughout Washington and beyond.

Bill Polk's commitment to public service has also extended to unusual political success and effectiveness. In 1971, Bill Polk accepted appointment to fill a vacancy in the Washington State House of Representatives; and he then succeeded in election and reelection for five additional terms, serving his final two years as Speaker of the House.

During his twelve years in the legislature, Mr. Polk held numerous positions of legislative responsibility, and participated in several national legislative organizations. In addition to his legislative activities, he engaged extensively in political party activities, elected by his fellow Republicans as Chairman of County and State Conventions.

In AIA activities, Bill Polk has generously shared his unique experience as a politically active and successful architect, serving as a professional resource in public affairs at both the state and the national level -- for instance as a keynote speaker at the AIA Grassroots leadership conference, at AIA national Conventions and at meetings in several states. He has devoted time and energy to additional community and civic service, and has written and spoken extensively on the subjects of his expertise. [Original posting c. 1990]

In 2011 William Polk Associates joined with INNOVA Architects Inc., and in 2015 serves as Principal in Charge of the firm's Mercer Island office.

The AIA Washington Council established the William Polk Award in recognition of Bill's unique service to the profession and the public.

References:

*"Rep. Frank Chopp Receives William Polk Award"

*"The Architect in the Political Process," by William Polk