The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is delighted to announce that Jack Pringle, President of the institute has been awarded the rank of Commandeur in the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government.

This is France’s highest cultural accolade. Previous recipients include Jackson Pollock, Bob Dylan and Paul Auster.

Laurence Auer, Director of the French Institute and The Cultural Department of The French Embassy stated: “As President of the Royal Institute of British Architects, Jack Pringle has always maintained a particular interest on Education and has fought for it all over the world. By awarding the honour of Commandeur des Arts et Lettres to Jack Pringle, France recognises the significant contribution he has made not only to French Culture but to cultural life in general.”

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Jack Pringle said: “I am particularly delighted and grateful to have been honoured by the French Government by the award of Commandeur des Arts et Lettres for my contribution to architectural education internationally.

"Architecture is a progressive agent for good in our society and there is an international community of architects committed to excellence in education, and practice, which must be supported and encouraged. France has been a great patron of architecture of the highest quality and it is a pleasure to be recognised by such an enlightened nation.”

(CL/SP)