Hello Andrew,
I was appointed as State Architect in 2017 and am the first female state architect, but the position has been around since the State Building Commission was created in 1955, to serve as their chief staff officer or subject matter expert.
The Legislature created the State Building Commission (SBC) to oversee construction of all State public buildings (T.C.A. § 4-15-101 et seq.). The SBC's responsibility has been expanded to include authority over most State construction and demolition projects and the acquisition and disposal of State lands (in fee, easement or by lease).
As a statutorily created body, the SBC seeks to ensure that actions and decisions affecting real property in which the State has an interest are made in the best interest of the State. This role includes promoting quality in design and construction, sound fiscal management, fair competition for work, and proactive planning and decision-making. Approximately 110 million square feet and 900 thousand acres of the State's real estate portfolio is under the authority of the SBC. This portfolio includes all real estate used by General Government agencies and State Higher Education Institutions but excludes road and bridge property and projects under the authority of the Tennessee Department of Transportation.
Mike Fitz, who served as the TN State Architect for over 30 years, assured the continuation of the state architect role through asserting the term in various laws over the years so today there are more than 80 references to the state architect in Tennessee state law. He was an architect, lawyer, civil engineer, and amazing role model.
------------------------------
Ann McGauran AIA
TN Stat Architect
Department of Treasury
Nashville TN
------------------------------