"I'm a big believer in neighborhood stability. Neighborhoods should have a character."
Joe Fama
Joseph B. Fama (1948 - 2026)
TAP Founder - Architect - Mentor - Advocate for Troy
The Fama Design Fellowship
Joe was TAP’s first employee in 1971. Barb Fama was the third in 1973. Together, they grew a volunteer group into a trusted nonprofit with 10 employees. Along the way, TAP has employed well over one hundred architectural interns, many from RPI, Joe’s alma mater. After some 44 years, they retired, for what turned out to be too short a time together without the worries of making payroll.
Payroll makes up 80% of TAP’s budget, and your donation will support the employment of one Fama Design Fellow each year. TAP will select an intern from a pool recommended by the dean and faculty of RPI’s School of Architecture. The position will be funded through the annual interest earned on contributions from donors like you.
Your gift will sustain TAP’s work and provide hands-on experience in participatory design, sustainable urban planning, accessibility, housing justice, placemaking, and creative community service—continuing a legacy Joe measured by the number of people living in healthy, safe, and affordable homes.
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If you would like to donate to the Fama Design Fellowship, please proceed to our Donation Page and select Fama Design Fellowship from the drop-down menu.
Thank you for helping TAP keep the Fama legacy alive.
Hand drawn by Joe Fama
