I. M. Pei

Who he is: 

I. M. Pei was a Chinese-American architect known for iconic modern landmarks, including the glass pyramid at the Louvre, the National Gallery of Art East Building in Washington, D.C., and the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. He received the Pritzker Prize and numerous other honors. 

 

Why he matters: 

Pei combined bold geometry with deep respect for place and history, showing students that problem-solving and creativity can reshape city skylines—and how new and old can live side by side.