William “Bill” Browne, Jr.
NCHS Class of 1973
A visionary architect, business leader, and preservationist, William “Bill” A. Browne, Jr., FAIA, has dedicated his career to shaping communities through architecture. His passion for design, combined with an unwavering commitment to excellence, has earned him a well-deserved place in the Hall of Fame.
Growing up in Washington Township, Bill attended Orchard School, Fall Creek Elementary, Eastwood, and ultimately North Central High School. His time at NCHS was filled with both artistic and academic pursuits. As a member of Counterpoints, music was a major part of his high school experience, providing lifelong friendships and invaluable lessons in collaboration. He participated in musicals and shows, even forming a barbershop quartet, The Northside Travel Club, which continued performing throughout college with fellow classmates from NCHS.
Beyond the arts, Bill’s passion for architecture took root early. At just 10 years old, he knew he wanted to become an architect. At NCHS, he took drafting and math courses that laid the foundation for his future. His artistic talent, combined with a natural aptitude for technical drawing, propelled him toward his dream profession.
Bill pursued his passion at the University of Illinois, earning his bachelor’s degree in architecture before completing a master’s degree at the University of Florida. His early career took him to Washington, D.C., and Jacksonville, Florida, where he gained invaluable experience before returning to Indianapolis in 1980.
At just 26 years old, Bill founded RATIO Architects in 1982, a firm that has since grown into a national leader in design, with six offices nationwide in Chicago, Raleigh, Denver, Milwaukee, Indianapolis, and Champaign, Illinois, with over 200 employees.
Bill’s work has left a lasting mark on Indiana and beyond, with high-profile projects such as the Indiana State Museum; the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis; Indiana Convention Center; Corporate Headquarters for Elanco, Cummins, NCAA, and Emmis Broadcasting; Signia by Hilton Hotel; IU Health Hospital; Bottleworks and Ironworks Hotels; and Projects at Purdue University, Indiana University (Bloomington & Indy), Butler University, Indiana State University, Ball State University, and the University of Illinois. His dedication to architecture extends beyond his firm. As a Fellow in the American Institute of Architects (FAIA) and a recipient of AIA Indiana’s Gold Medal, Bill has set a standard of excellence in the profession.
Beyond architecture, Bill has been deeply involved in civic leadership and historic preservation, serving on numerous boards that shape Indianapolis’ future, including the Indianapolis Historic Preservation Commission (President); Indiana State Museum Board (Past Chair); White River State Park Commission (Commissioner); Indianapolis Cultural Trail Board (Board Member); Downtown Indy Board (Past Chair); and Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee (Board Member). His leadership has earned him two Sagamore of the Wabash honors and a Distinguished Hoosier honor, two of Indiana’s highest civilian awards.
Reflecting on this recognition, Bill credits North Central High School for fostering his passion and preparing him for success. His journey from the choir stage to the drafting table is a testament to the foundational experiences that NCHS cultivates for students.
His induction into the Hall of Fame not only celebrates his incredible career but also inspires future generations of North Central alumni to pursue their passions with the same level of commitment and excellence.
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