Applications are now closed for 2026.
The Emerging Leaders in Architecture (ELA): An Honors Academy of the American Institute of Architects Virginia (AIA Virginia), develops future leaders in architecture firms, communities, and the profession. The goal is to accelerate the growth of emerging architects and provide the tools and experiences needed to advance their careers and serve society as leaders in the community. The program is fully executed by alumni of the program (over 200 total!), with leading experts in the indicated educational topics.
The program is designed to:
*Examine the evolving roles of architects and firms
*Expand writing and presentation skills
*Consider the fundamental legal, ethical, and societal responsibilities of architects
*Develop a peer network to serve as an ongoing resource
Monthly meeting topics include:
- Inheritance and Inspiration – a look at the history of architecture and the role architects play in the creative environment
- CliftonStrengths Talent Assessment – explore your top 5 strengths and how to maximize your effectiveness in teams
- Community Engagement best practices
- Working together – collaborations with design professionals, the public, and community leaders
- Business and professional communications including public relations, presentations, writing, and professional speaking
- Firm Management & Culture
The program consists of monthly, day-long seminars, work sessions, and class project presentations, ending with a group presentation at Architecture Exchange East in November.
The session locations rotate among sites in Roanoke, Charlottesville, Richmond, Alexandria, and Norfolk in conjunction with the firms, schools, and the local AIA component in each area.
If you have any questions about ELA, please contact Delaney Ogden, Education Director at dogden@aiava.org
Are you an alumnus of the ELA program? Here’s how you can stay involved
Testimony’s from past ELA participants:
