The American Institute of Architects East Tennessee chapter recently recognized UT School of Architecture professor Max Robinson for his contributions to the architectural field. The AIA is a group of over 80,000 licensed architects throughout the country with over 300 different branches.

Max Robinson is the former director of the School of Architecture. He received the AIA East Tennessee Gold Medal Award on Oct. 23.

The gold medal is the highest award that the AIA presents. AIA awards the gold medal to one architect every year.  Winners are chosen for their significant career or influence on architecture.

In a press release, John McRae, dean of the College of Architecture and Design said, "This achievement is reflective of Max's professional and academic accomplishments. It is quite an honor to receive this award."

Robinson came to UT in 1967 and then took an 11 year absence to focus on his architecture career in the Knoxville area. He is responsible for many buildings throughout Knoxville and was the architect on a few buildings around the UT campus as well.

He returned to UT in 1983 and became the director of the School of Architecture in 1997. He stepped down as director last spring after 10 years. Robinson is currently a professor in the college.