Jefferson Architecture Student Elected President of International Student Organization

Bachelor of architecture and master of urban design student Luke Vastano has been elected the 70th president of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)—a significant national honor that highlights his leadership and Jefferson’s commitment to preparing students for impact beyond the classroom.

An independent, nonprofit, student-run organization, AIAS supports architecture and design students across the country and around the world. Each year, it serves thousands of students enrolled in architecture and design programs, providing advocacy, professional development and community-building opportunities.

“This organization is run by students, for students,” Vastano says. “We’re elected by our peers, and our goal is to represent architecture students in real conversations about education, accreditation and what professional life looks like after graduation.”

As president, Vastano serves as an external-facing leader for AIAS, representing student voices within the broader architectural alliance, including the American Institute of Architects and other professional organizations. His role places him in the room for discussions that directly affect students’ futures, from licensure pathways to work-life balance.

A Lifelong Love of Building
Vastano’s path to architecture began early. “I was a Lincoln Logs kid,” he says. “I loved building things, taking them apart and starting over.”

As he grew older, that curiosity expanded into an awareness of how buildings and spaces shape everyday experiences, from schools to neighborhoods. “I realized how intentional architecture could affect my life,” he says. “That process is still very true for me.”

Through AIAS programming, Vastano hopes to ensure students’ voices shape the future of the profession and the role that architects play in society. “Students deserve a seat at the table,” he says.

Looking Ahead and Giving Back
While Vastano has always wanted to drive change through design, his leadership experiences have expanded his definition of impact. “Making a difference also means empowering people,” he says. “Helping students advocate for themselves and find opportunities has been incredibly rewarding.”

Vastano credits strong mentorship at Jefferson, particularly from Barbara Klinkhammer, dean of the Jefferson College of Architecture and the Built Environment, for pushing him to dream bigger.

“She believed in me from the start,” he says. “She constantly challenged me to ask, ‘What’s next?’ and helped break down the walls I thought were there.”

Klinkhammer says Vastano’s election as AIAS president reflects his outstanding leadership and the collaborative community Jefferson fosters.

“His dedication to amplifying student voices and engaging thoughtfully with the future of architectural education exemplifies the kind of impact we hope all our students will make,” she says. “We’re incredibly proud of Luke and excited to see how he continues to influence the profession on both the national and international stage.”

That support inspired him to pay it forward. “I want to give others the same support I received,” Vastano says. “That’s what leadership means to me.”

For students interested in getting involved, his advice is simple: start, listen and stay open. “You don’t have to be good at leadership right away—you just have to try,” he says. “Surround yourself with people who support you, keep learning and don’t put limits on yourself. You never know how far you can go.”