Oswaldo Rivera-Ortiz, Assoc. AIA
Oswaldo Rivera-Ortiz, Assoc. AIA, is a visionary educator and advocate whose transformative work in K–12 outreach is making architecture more accessible, inclusive, and empowering for the next generation.
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Katie HittOswaldo helped coordinated and volunteered at the ‘Design My Future’ Spring Camp 2022. -
AIA DallasReceiving the 2019 AIA Dallas Architecture Educator Award. Pictured with AIA Dallas President, Richard Miller, FAIA. -
Oswaldo Rivera-OrtizHigh school students engage with Lord Peter Palumbo at his property, Frank Lloyd Wright designed Kentuck Knob. -
Oswaldo Rivera-OrtizAIA Dallas Architecture and Design College Fair organized by the Education Outreach Committee
Oswaldo Rivera-Ortiz, Assoc. AIA, is a passionate educator, designer, and advocate whose groundbreaking work in K–12 architectural education is transforming how the profession engages with the next generation. With a career rooted in public service, Oswaldo blends his architectural expertise with a deep commitment to mentorship and community outreach. From founding R STUDIO, a high school design-build program in Texas, to leading the Education Outreach Committee at AIA Dallas, he has impacted more than 10,000 students across over 70 school districts.
A champion of diversity and equity in architecture, Oswaldo’s initiatives include organizing statewide high school design competitions, creating training programs for architectural educators, and leading national K–12 activations at AIA conferences. His leadership extends to national service through AIA's K-12 IDEA Group and the Committee on Architecture for Education. Recognized with awards from AIA, TxA, A4LE, and Texas Instruments, he exemplifies the spirit of advocacy and access in the built environment.
Now serving as a project manager at Stantec, Oswaldo bridges professional practice with educational impact, inspiring students, educators, and architects alike. His mission is clear: to make architecture accessible, inclusive, and a force for empowerment—locally and globally. Oswaldo is shaping the future of the profession by ensuring everyone sees a place for themselves in it.
This award recognizes Associate AIA members who are outstanding leaders, creative thinkers, and who have made significant contributions to their communities and the architecture profession.
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