Professor Wu Jiang from College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tongji University was awarded the AIA Presidential Medal at the 2026 AIA Annual Conference in San Diego on June 13, making him the first Chinese architectural scholar ever to win this prestigious honor for architectural leaders.

The medal was presented by AIA President Illya Azaroff, who praised Professor Wu’s outstanding achievements in advancing architectural disciplines, boosting professional development, improving architectural education, and promoting global architectural exchanges. Six elite architects worldwide received the award this year.

Serving as President of the Architects Regional Council Asia, Professor Wu also holds many key academic and administrative posts. His core research covers urban heritage conservation, urban renewal and refined urban governance. AIA acknowledged his theories have profoundly shaped urban preservation practices across China, Asia, America and Europe.

This landmark recognition marks global recognition of Chinese urban research and elevates Tongji’s international influence in architecture and urban planning.