C. Douglas Aurand, ASLA, Paul N. Proto, and Robert Skunda will be recognized with Society Honors at the Visions for Architecture gala on Friday, Nov. 9, 2012, at the Hotel John Marshall. Society Honors are bestowed upon organizations or citizens who have inspired, influenced, or complemented architecture or the architecture profession in Virginia through an allied profession, research, education, planning, legislation, journalism, the arts, or crafts.
Doug Aurand, principal with Norfolk-based Siska Aurand Landscape Architects, Inc., has practiced landscape architecture and aquatic design throughout the United States for more than 30 years. In the early 80s, while an assistant professor of landscape architecture at Oklahoma State University, he compiled research and wrote the internationally recognized textbook “Fountains and Pools, Construction Guidelines and Specifications.” It is perceived as an all-encompassing resource for designing and building water features and pools, and has been heavily utilized in universities in both the U.S. and abroad. His work, which can be found in private homes, city centers, parks, universities and museums, has been described as aesthetically pleasing, long lasting and easy to maintain. As a consultant, his expertise in aquatic design has helped countless colleagues realize their vision. In presenting this honor the Society recognizes his far-reaching work as an educator, innovative design work, and expertise as a consultant.
Paul Proto served the Commonwealth of Virginia from the mid-1970s until retiring in 2011. In addition to his more than 20 years of service as the Director of General Services of Henrico County, he was instrumental in helping to shape influential policy and legislation impacting designers throughout state. During his time on several key committees and boards, he helped draft various procurement policies establishing qualifications-based selection and served on the study commission which resulted in the adoption of the Virginia Public Procurement Act. He also helped guide the way public design-build contracts were implemented and served on the State Appeals Board helping to resolve bidding issues. In presenting his honor, the Society salutes his decades of public service helping to create a quality built environment.
After an impressive career with the firm Dewberry Davis, Robert Skunda distinguished him as an advocate for business and a strong proponent for economic development in the Commonwealth. He served as Chair of two of the largest business organizations in the state, Secretary of Commerce and Trade under Governor George Allen, and has been President and CEO of the Virginia Biotechnology Park since 1997. During his time as Secretary of Commerce, he served on numerous boards and commissions focused on improving business conditions, increasing competitiveness, and easing the challenges facing private-sector businesses in Virginia. In conveying this honor, the Society especially recognizes his vigorous support of economic development and his role in helping to create favorable business conditions in the Commonwealth.