"I am pleased to announce Joel Blackstock as recipient of the President's Award.  For decades, Joel has led Williams Blackstock Architects to excel in creativity and dedication to our collective craft, as evidenced by their portfolio … as well as the design awards they have been awarded.  (And we all know – one cannot lead others to grow in any attribute without having a great measure of that attribute themselves.)

Joel has also selflessly given himself in service and leadership to our sister organization, the Alabama Center for Architecture. During his years of service (which includes President), Joel worked with Design Alabama to coordinate the architectural portion of "Design200". This 2019 feature showcased 200 examples of excellent design, including 50 examples of superb architectural design.  Joel also jumpstarted the ACFA's membership initiative, which has helped it become more financially self-sustaining.

Perhaps most importantly, Joel selflessly volunteered for ACFA events on numerous occasions, emphasizing to children, youth, and adults the excitement and fulfillment architecture brings to individuals and society.

In recognition of his exemplary and substantive leadership of the Alabama Center for Architecture and of Williams Blackstock Architects, AIA Alabama bestows the 2020 President's Award on Joel Blackstock!"

- Bruce Herrington, AIA