Terrance Brown FAIA

Terry Brown’s career in disaster relief and architecture spans over 48 years, starting with his volunteer work in Latin America following the Vietnam War, where he helped preserve Mayan languages and assisted in disaster response efforts, such as after the 1976 earthquake in Guatemala. He later founded Xocomil Design, an architecture practice, and contributed significantly to disaster preparedness, serving as Chair of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Disaster Assistance Committee. Brown developed the AIA Disaster Comprehensive Response System and authored key publications that influenced FEMA’s housing guidelines and national disaster response strategies. His international work, including disaster assistance in Sri Lanka, Japan, and the Caribbean, led to his recognition as a leader in resilient architecture, earning multiple prestigious awards such as the national AIA Edward C. Kemper and Whitney Young Jr. Award, AIA Western Region Silver Medal and AIA New Mexico Silver Medal.

Terry is an emeritus Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, author, illustrator, and decorated Vietnam war veteran who serves as the national VFW Scouting Chair for New Mexico. He served as VFW Post Commander and earned All-American and All-State Commander each of those three years. In Scouting America, he has been awarded the Silver Antelope and Silver Beaver Awards, Doctorate of Commissioner Science Degree, and Distinguished Commissioner Awards. He Is a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow and serves is Council Service Territory-CST-8 Commissioner Cabinet member