Filipino architect is Aspen scholar

MANILA, Philippines - National Geographic and The Aspen Institute selected architect Lira Luis as the 2010 Aspen Environment Forum Scholar.

US-based Filipino architect Luis is the first Filipino graduate architect of the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright. Several years ago, she designed a $4-million shopping mall drawing inspiration from her Filipino culture.

Luis has also been awarded accreditation as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Professional in Chicago, Illinois. The LEED Accredited Professional is a prestigious credential that sets apart building professionals with knowledge and skills about green building practices.

Aspen Environment Forum Scholars are selected on the basis of their experience, achievements, and interest in energy and the environment, as well as their commitment and contributions to the field.

This Forum is also part celebration – of the wonders of the natural world and the continual discovery of aspects of it that describe who we are and where we came from. Many leading explorers, researchers and journalists attend the Forum to describe first hand the discoveries they are making and what new insights we can gain from them.

Confirmed to be at the Aspen Institute, starting with the Aspen Ideas Festival, are Microsoft founder Bill Gates, DreamWorks Animation CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg, and Twitter founders Biz Stone and Evan Williams. They will be present to play a prominent role in the event representing technology and new media. — goodnewspilipinas