We were honored to present the 2026 Chairman’s Award at The Metropolitan Club on June 10 to several outstanding recipients whose work exemplifies dedication to preserving New York’s architectural heritage.
Honoring
Roz Li, RA, LEED AP Principal (emerita) – Ms. Li has more than 30 years of experience as an architect. She has an architectural degree from the University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, and a master’s degree in Historic Preservation from Columbia University.
Ms. Li has taught preservation at the Graduate School of Architecture and Planning, Columbia University, and the School of Architecture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Ms. Li retired from Li/Saltzman in August 2012. Through Bakás Pilipinas, a not-for-profit organization she co-founded, Ms. Li is currently fostering the preservation of historic and cultural resources in the Philippines. Ms. Li organizes preservation training programs, including an international symposium in Manila in 2016 on the “Seismic Retrofit of Unreinforced Masonry Heritage Churches in the Philippines”.
Judith Saltzman, RA, LEED AP Principal (emerita) – Ms. Saltzman is a founding principal of Li/Saltzman Architects, has more than 40 years of professional experience as an architect
and preservationist.
Ms. Saltzman led the firm with a commitment to environmentally and socially responsible design and an understanding of the complexities of preservation and development.
Her early career included the Society for the Preservation of Long Island Antiquities and the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. With a cultural and civic focus, Judith’s projects have received numerous awards. Judith received her architectural degree from Pratt Institute and completed the Master’s Program in Historic Preservation at Columbia University. She is the former co-chair of the Preservation Committee of the Municipal Arts Society, a member of the Architectural League, Association for Preservation Technology, ICOMOS, and DOCOMOMO.
Mc Gowan – Founded in 2001, Mc Gowan is a family-oriented premier construction firm that has built millions of square feet for a wide range of market sectors. They utilize cutting-edge technology and innovative building techniques.
Comprised of more than 60 professionals, Mc Gowan prides itself on quality work, commitment to excellence, and adherence to best practices while providing general contracting and construction management services to private and institutional clients. Mc Gowan has achieved industry recognition as an innovative construction firm skilled at building complex projects.
Mc Gowan’s culture is family-oriented, promoting a work-life balance. They have also established two foundations. The Loretta Mc Gowan Foundation supports research for Down syndrome, and the Vincent Mc Gowan Foundation raises concern and supports families affected by depression.
Richard W. Southwick, FAIA – Richard is Partner Emeritus at Beyer Blinder Belle, where he led the firm’s preservation practice and had a 40-year career. His clients have included the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Frick Collection, the Morgan Library & Museum, Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Columbia University, and New York City Hall. He has restored modern airport landmarks, including the TWA Flight Center and the Marine Air Terminal, and designed retail spaces for Cartier, Hermès, and Prada.
Richard is a preservation architect who has led the revitalization of many of New York’s most celebrated historic buildings and sites. A strong advocate for preservation, he supports organizations including the Historic House Trust, the Save Ellis Island Foundation, and the New York Landmarks Conservancy, where he serves on the Board.
Richard earned degrees from SUNY Albany and Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation.
Honorary Chair
Frank J. Sciame Jr. – CEO and Chairman, Sciame
Honorary Co-Chairs
Elizabeth Stribling – Founder, Stribling & Associates, now Stribling at COMPASS
Stephen J. Meringoff– Chairman, Meringoff Properties, Inc.
The Chairman’s Award recognizes businesses, individuals, and organizations that demonstrate their commitment to protecting New York’s incomparable architectural legacy, the world-renowned buildings, and diverse neighborhoods that define the City’s energy and excitement.
Thank you, and congratulations to our 2026 honorees!
Chairman’s Program / Ad Journal
For More Information
Please contact Carla Eilo.