# CODIA leadership transition in Dominican Republic > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/codia-leadership-transition-in-dominican-republic > Updated: 2026-08-14T19:09:53.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. Architect George Richardson was elected president of the Colegio Dominicano de Ingenieros, Arquitectos y Agrimensores (CODIA) for the 2026–2027 term. Following his election, Richardson pledged a new phase of technical collaboration and advisory support for the central government of President Luis Abinader, as well as for local governments and decentralized entities. Upon his formal inauguration on 14 August, Richardson outlined a management plan centered on institutional modernization, transparency, and the defense of professional practice. He called for unity among members, declaring, “From today there are no lists. From today there is only one team: CODIA.” His administration intends to focus on continuous education through the CODIA Virtual Academy, specifically targeting training in artificial intelligence and new technologies. Additionally, Richardson plans to coordinate with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (MESCyT) to facilitate scholarship opportunities for members pursuing master's and postgraduate programs. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-14: George Richardson assumes presidency of CODIA Architect George Richardson has been sworn in as President of CODIA for the 2026–2027 term, pledging a focus on transparency, digital transformation, and professional education in the Dominican Republic. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/george-richardson-assumes-presidency-of-codia ### 2026-08-06: George Richardson elected CODIA president, pledges technical collaboration with Dominican government George Richardson was elected CODIA president for 2026‑27, pledging technical collaboration with President Luis Abinader’s government; his inauguration is set for Aug 14. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/george-richardson-elected-codia-president-pledges-technical-collaboration-with-dominican-government --- Cite as: CODIA leadership transition in Dominican Republic. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/codia-leadership-transition-in-dominican-republic