Architecture + Health alumna elevated to AIA’s College of Fellows

Jill Bergman, a graduate of Clemson’s Master of Architecture in Architecture + Health (A+H) program, was recently raised to the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) College of Fellows (FAIA). Alongside her newly awarded FAIA status, Bergman was elevated to the American College of Healthcare Architects (ACHA) College of Fellows in 2023. Additionally, Bergman is Evidence-Based Design Accreditation and Certification (EDAC) certified by The Center for Health Design and is a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) by the U.S. Green Building Council.

According to AIA, the fellowship program was developed to elevate architects who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession and made a significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level. As such, being elevated to the College of Fellows is one of the highest distinctions that AIA can give, with only 3% of all AIA members being given the distinction and less than 1% of the fellows are women.

Bergman has consistently brought her passion for healthcare architecture and service to the profession throughout her academic and professional career, according to David Allison, director of the A+H program.

“Jill has touched, supported and inspired numerous young and emerging professionals. I know firsthand how she has mentored and inspired several of my former students, who have been inspired by her and followed her path into the profession and professional service.”

David Allison, director of the A+H program

During Bergman’s time at Clemson, her work was nationally recognized with an AIA-AAH Arthur Tuttle Fellowship supporting her graduate thesis.

“As a student, she stood out as a leader in her class,” said Allison. “It was clear early on that she would become both an accomplished healthcare architect and committed to our profession through her service.”

“Everything about Clemson affected my career path in such a positive way,” explained Bergman. “My undergraduate in design supported and confirmed my desire for a career in architecture. My graduate degree from Clemson’s Architecture + Health program opened the door to discovering my real passion, specializing in healthcare planning and design.”

For Bergman, being an active participant is imperative for students who are interested in the healthcare profession.

“Be an active participant in your career, making time to step into the larger profession of architecture and in any area where you might specialize, including healthcare design,” she said. “Work on those soft skills that are often overlooked – public speaking, listening, facilitating, writing – those are just as valuable tools in career development as much as understanding how buildings go together or learning new digital tools.”

According to HDR, throughout Bergman’s over 30-year career, she has inspired many through her advocacy, mentorship and knowledge sharing, sustaining leadership positions in professional organizations both locally and across the U.S., including AIA’s Academy of Architecture for Health, AIA San Francisco Chapter, the Foundation for Health Environments Research, the Association of Medical Facility Professionals and the American College of Healthcare Architects.

“Jill’s work and passion for the architecture + health field exemplifies the impact of the School of Architecture’s Architecture + Health program,” shared Clemson University School of Architecture Director and Professor of Architecture James Stevens. “Our students are making a direct impact in our profession, and it is exciting to see one of our alumni be elevated to the College of Fellows.”

“It is definitely a lifetime career achievement,” said Bergman. “… I am honored and proud that my career is worthy of such an accolade.”