San Diego Takes Center Stage

Join Us in Celebrating FSDA’s 40th Anniversary and Our Region’s Legacy as a World Design Capital!
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San Diego Takes Center Stage

AIA National Convention: The Architecture & Design Event of the Year

A Preview from AIA San Diego
with
Ben Dalton, President

and
Bennett Peji, Executive Director

Saturday, March 21, 10:00 AM
San Diego History Center
Casa de Balboa
1649 El Prado
Balboa Park

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Join Ben Dalton and Bennett Peji as they spotlight AIA26: The AIA Conference on Architecture & Design, coming to San Diego, June 10-13, 2026. This four-day gathering is the premier event for architects, designers, and AEC leaders — crafted to meet the moment with fresh insights, deep learning, and meaningful connection.

Attendees will hear how the conference serves as a catalyst for practice-defining ideas through visionary keynotes, hundreds of expert-led continuing education opportunities, exclusive architect-led tours of San Diego’s most compelling built landmarks, and the industry’s largest expo of materials, technologies, and innovations shaping the future of design and practice. Ben and Bennett will share what will make AIA26 a once-in-a-lifetime experience and how San Diego’s design community is helping shape an unforgettable conference experience.

Ben Dalton, AIA

Ben Dalton is the President of the San Diego chapter of the American Institute of Architects. As an architect and firm partner, he leads Miller Hull’s San Diego Studio. He is a frequent lecturer and is active in the San Diego design community. Having practiced in North Carolina, Seattle, and San Diego over his career, an understanding of place is profoundly important to Ben, as is the importance of collecting a diversity of perspectives in the curation of design ideas. Committed to sustainable architecture and improving our built environment across multiple sectors of work, Ben works at multiple scales for both public and private clients.

Bennett Peji, AIGA Fellow

Bennett Peji is the Executive Director of the San Diego chapter of the American Institute of Architects. He is a social impact executive and international brand consultant, executive coach, creative director, designer, and passionate advocate for inclusive, community-centered design. Bennett has held numerous leadership roles, including Chairman of California Humanities, President of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Asian Business Association, and Vice President of the Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation. He also contributed to San Diego’s cultural landscape as a Commissioner of Arts & Culture from 2003-2012 and served on the board of Tijuana Innovadora. He’s the US representative on the board of the International Council of Design, which represents 59 member countries.