FOUNDER:

Gerald Dolezar

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Charles Prettyman, RA
President, NY Architects Regatta Foundation
Senior Associate, Cerami

Charles Prettyman is a dynamic architect and design application specialist. He is deeply passionate about empowering design teams to bring their visions to life and craft more vibrant, livable environments. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for innovation, Charles specializes in design software, excelling in defining workflows and customizing applications to streamline the daily work of architects and engineers.

Beyond the office, Charles is a seasoned sailor, finding solace and adventure on the open water. His love for sailing extends beyond recreation; he’s been an integral part of the NY Architects Regatta foundation since 2012. Charles’s commitment and dedication has led him from dedicated member to the role of vice-president, and now president, a position he assumed in 2023. In this role, he continues to steer the foundation towards greater success, blending his professional expertise with his personal passions to make a lasting impact.

Daniel Frisch, RA, AIA
Vice President, New York Architects Regatta Foundation
Founder and Senior Partner, Daniel Frisch Architecture

A visionary architect and leader in the field, Daniel Frisch serves as the vice president of the New York Architects Regatta Foundation and is the founder and senior partner of Daniel Frisch Architecture.

Daniel’s architectural journey began at the Harvard University Career Discovery Program in Architecture in ’82. He furthered his studies, earning an undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia School of Architecture in ’87 and a Master in Architecture from Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture Planning and Preservation in ’91.

Following his graduation from Columbia, Daniel, along with his graduate school friends Edward Cabot and Amy Lesser, RA, co-founded an architecture and design firm in Midtown Manhattan. At Daniel Frisch Architecture (DFA), Daniel is deeply involved in every aspect, from custom commissions to the innovative DFA STUDIO Program. He’s particularly enthusiastic about the DFA HOUSE, an environmentally sustainable modular house concept that aims to redefine attainable housing.

Daniel’s creativity extends beyond architecture; he’s the mind behind several innovative products, including the DFA Fire Chair and the DF Line Drawings collection of bath fixtures. He’s also the designer of DFA Box Architecture, a wall-hung system for storage and display. Additionally, Daniel is a prolific writer, with a collection of essays titled ‘Looking Forward to Monday Morning’ currently under editorial review with publishers. In a testament to his passion for sharing knowledge, Daniel has embarked on a teaching journey, joining the UVA Veneto Programs in Venice and Charlottesville in the fall of 2023 as a visiting critic.

Daniel Frisch embodies a blend of innovation, creativity, and commitment to sustainable design, making him a driving force in the architectural world.

Daniel Allen, AIA, LEED AP
Treasurer and President Emeritus, NY Architects Regatta Foundation
Partner, Allen + Killcoyne Architects

A prominent figure in the architectural and sailing communities, Dan Allen serves as the treasurer and president emeritus of the NY Architects Regatta Foundation, while also holding a partnership at Allen + Killcoyne Architects.

Dan’s architectural journey began at Syracuse University, where he earned his Bachelor of Architecture in 1982. While Dan is deeply involved in maintaining the firm’s design quality, his primary focus lies in managing the office and overseeing specific projects. He holds architectural licenses in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania and is a LEED-certified architect, recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council for his commitment to sustainable design practices.

Dan’s love for sailing shines outside of the office. He is a proud member of the New York Yacht Club and the American Yacht Club in Rye, NY. His passion for sailing extends beyond membership; Dan has recorded repeated victories at the NY Architects Regatta, showcasing his skill and dedication to the sport.

As a founding member of the NY Architects Regatta Foundation, Dan served as its inaugural president from 2012 to 2023, overseeing a period of remarkable growth. Under his leadership, event participation doubled, and annual fundraising skyrocketed from $20,000 to an impressive $200,000. Dan remains a vital part of the foundation as its treasurer, continuing to contribute his expertise and passion to further its mission and impact.

Christopher T. LaSala, AIA LEED AP
President, Draftwork, LLC
Secretary, NY Architects Regatta Foundation

A seasoned architect and real estate professional with over two decades of experience. Chris currently serves as the president of Draftwork, LLC, and as the secretary of the NY Architects Regatta Foundation.

With a wealth of experience as a senior project manager in both construction and architecture, Chris has overseen projects totaling more than $1 billion in construction value. His expertise spans all phases of design, from schematic design to project closeout. Chris is renowned for his skill in executing construction administration services on highly complex projects, ranging from 2,500 to over 700,000 square feet.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Chris is a passionate racing sailor. He holds a unique record as the only person to have participated in every Architects Regatta since its inception in 2001. His dedication to the sport is further exemplified by his role in organizing the first 2 boat programs while at Robert AM Stern Architects.

Chris’s commitment to the architectural community extends beyond sailing. He has been an active member of the NY Architects Regatta Foundation since 2012 and currently serves as the organization’s Secretary. His leadership and expertise continue to drive the foundation’s mission forward, ensuring its continued success.