Meet our 2025 President!
Dear AIA Birmingham Members, Sponsors, and Supporters,
As we step into another promising year, I am honored to get to serve as your chapter president. This year marks an extraordinary milestone for our chapter- our 60th anniversary. Since Edward J. Bondurant first held this position in 1965, a legacy of vision, dedication, and passion has been carried forward by a remarkable group of past presidents who have shaped the AIA Birmingham we know today.
Recently, I asked our Executive Committee what they value most about AIA Birmingham. The answers were heartfelt and beautifully capture the essence of who we are:
• Collegiality: AIA Birmingham is a place where architects connect, collaborate, and grow together.
• Our Sponsors: Your support sustains and energizes everything we do. Thank you for standing with us and being such important resources and collaborators.
• Advocacy: From the local level to state and national initiatives, we are proud to champion the issues that matter most to our profession and communities.
• Continuing Education: CEUs remain a cornerstone of our offerings, ensuring our members stay ahead in a constantly evolving field.
• Awards and Socials: From recognizing excellence in design to fostering connections at our events, these moments celebrate the best of us.
• Community Initiatives: Our outreach programs like the Alabama Center for Architecture (ACFA), dreamARCHITECTURE, N2 Architecture, ACE Mentoring, student scholarships, and disaster assistance reflect our commitment to making a difference. Learn more and get involved here.
Leading up to this position, I’ve gotten to learn so much about the many ways our amazing members collectively and individually impact our community. It goes way beyond the buildings we design. Architects are so generous with their time and talents in service to others.
Our national organization has grown to represent more than 100,000 members, a testament to the collective strength and impact of architects across the country. Locally, we are fortunate to have an exceptional team, led by our Executive Director, Rhea Williams, and her team at Karma Management, who work tirelessly to support our membership and advocate for our profession. I am proud to serve alongside such dedicated folks.
Looking Ahead:
This year, let’s celebrate our rich history while continuing to build on our successes. We have an exciting vision: to extend our advocacy efforts, championing the importance of architecture in creating a better world; to strengthen the bonds within our community through meaningful programs, engaging events, and collaborative initiatives; and to empower the next generation of architects by expanding scholarships and mentorship opportunities.
Gratitude and Involvement:
To our sponsors, thank you for your unwavering support. I encourage all members to take a moment to thank and support these invaluable partners. To our members, we are here to serve you, listen to you, represent you, advocate for you, and celebrate you. Your input and involvement are vital as we move forward together.
Spoiler Alert!
While we celebrate AIA Birmingham’s 60th anniversary, I’ll tease that it’s not the only milestone we’ll mark this year. Be on the lookout for some April Foolery—you won’t want to miss it!
Here’s to another year of growth, innovation, and inspiration. Together, let’s honor our legacy and create a vibrant future for architects in Birmingham and beyond. Thank you for being part of AIA Birmingham. Let’s make this year extraordinary together!!
