Patty Opitz receives national award from American Institute of Architects

Patty Opitz, a senior associate and licensed architect at Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects in Little Rock, has been honored with the prestigious Young Architect Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Opitz is one of only 22 architects selected from across the country for the recognition.

The annual program now in its 26th year recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the architecture profession early in their careers.

Opitz is just the fourth architect from Arkansas to receive the recognition, and the first female architect to receive the award.

she will receive the award at the annual AIA Conference on Architecture in June in Las Vegas.

“Patty’s passion for the architect’s role in shaping community policy and elevating the human experience makes her an excellent example for the next generation to emulate,” said Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects Principal Reese Rowland, “Patty leads with actions beyond words; she is an architect of consequence beyond our profession.”

Opitz is the project architect team manager for the new Bank OZK headquarters building in, one of the largest construction projects in the state. The 247,000 square foot facility sits on a 44-acre site at The Ranch on Highway 10 in Little Rock. Her project experience also includes the University of Central Arkansas Donaghey Hall, The Village at Hendrix Market Square South, The Purple Cow restaurants, Mosaic Church of Central Arkansas and numerous private residences across the state of Arkansas.

Opitz is also a recipient of the Arkansas Construction Hall of Fame 2018 Emerging Professional Award and the AIA Arkansas 2016 Emerging Professional Award.