Michigan Architectural Foundation board member Douglas (Doug) Kueffner, AIA, has been involved with MAF for over 23 years, including serving as MAF President, Secretary, Vice President, and Auction Chair. He is currently heavily involved in MAF’s communications committee, where he oversees the monthly newsletter.
MAF is pleased to announce that Doug is the recipient of MAF’s 2026 Leadership Award, which recognizes outstanding leadership achievement and contribution to MAF. The award is presented annually at the AIA Michigan Honor Awards Program.
Doug joined WTA Architects in 1986 and served as president from 2003 through 2011. He has spent almost his entire career at WTA, and 2026 marks his 40th year. While he retired in 2023, he is currently working pro bono on projects he feels passionate about. Late WTA founder Leslie (Les) Tincknell, FAIA, was a great inspiration to Doug, both professionally and personally. Les served as president of WTA Architects for 17 years, and Doug feels that he is following in his footsteps.
He received his Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Lawrence Technological University and his Master of Architecture from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. As well, Doug was AIA Michigan President in 2011.
Doug continues to work with MAF because it is a worthy cause he feels drawn to. His favorite thing about working with MAF is the people: “Everyone is singularly focusing on supporting MAF’s mission,” he said. “The board is comprised of some very passionate and extremely talented individuals.”
Throughout his years of involvement, Doug has watched MAF grow. “When I first joined the board, we had maybe one scholarship and didn’t accomplish anywhere near what we are today,” he expressed. He also chaired the MAF auction board for seven years and helped to grow the auction greatly. “We have had phenomenal growth in everything that we are doing.”
Doug was extremely surprised and humbled to receive the award, and feels honored that his peers believe he has contributed significantly enough to receive it. “I think it’s an honor, especially when I look at everyone else on the board. Carl Roehling (long-time MAF board member) and Les Tincknell were the first two recipients of the award. To be included in a group with them is quite an honor. I am very appreciative.”