Category: VSAIA News

Parker Honored with Young Architect Award
We are elated that the American Institute of Architects (AIA), has announced that Carrie Parker, AIA is a recipient of the 2026 Young Architect Award.
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Registration Closes April 21
Join us for Design Forum XVII and hear from Marlon Blackwell, FAIA, Patricia Gruits, AIA, Ron Rael, and Mike Reynolds, who are vanguards of change, risk-takers whose practices challenge the standards of what it means to be an architect.
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ArchEx 2026 Call for Presentations
You have until April 30th to submit your presentation for consideration at this year’s Architecture Exchange East annual conference. ArchEx 2026 will be held in Richmond on November 4-6, 2026.
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Honors Call for Nominations
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2026 AIA Virginia Honors. Who will you nominate?
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Design Awards Call for Entries
Entries are now open for the 2026 Awards for Excellence in Architecture
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A Call for Candidates
We applaud and appreciate the continuing contributions of Kendall Nicholson, Ed. D., Assoc. AIA, who serves as the At-Large Director on the AIA Virginia Board. And we look forward to welcoming his successor and our next president-elect as we announce a call for candidates to both positions.
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Resiliency Speaker Series
Join us on Zoom for an exploration of resiliency in the built environment and discover why investing in resilient solutions can help protect us all.
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Tickets Now Available
From Vision to Action: The AIA VA COTE 2026 Sustainability Summit is a full-day event structured to spark inspiration, elevate practitioner insight, and produce tangible next steps for the profession. Join us on Thursday, May 28, and don’t wait to register; tickets are limited.
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2026 AIA Virginia Prize Awarded
$5,500 has been awarded for the 2026 Virginia Prize. The brief allowed students to design a Third Space in Bridgewater, Virginia.
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VA COTE + USGBC Building Tour
Harvesting the Elements: How the Nature Conservancy Harnessed the Sun, Water, and Plants
Join us for our 2026 building tour series! We wish to celebrate exciting and innovative sustainable building design around the Commonwealth. Our April tour will be at the Nature Conservancy in Arlington, VA.
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NAC Update
Read the NAC Q1 newsbite and StAR, Aidan Brown, shares the results from the recent Associate survey.
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The 2026 Honors Committee
AIA Virginia gratefully acknowledges those who will serve on this year’s Honors Committee.
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VA COTE + USGBC Building Tour
Join us for our 2026 building tour series! We wish to celebrate exciting and innovative sustainable building design around the Commonwealth. Our May tour will be the LEED Silver – Virginia Tech Data and Decision Sciences Building in Blacksburg, VA.
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Welcome New Members
We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia.
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Historic Tour: Tangier Island
Visit the island of Tangier, Virginia, with AIA Virginia’s Historic Resources Committee to learn about the community’s long history and insights about its built environment.
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We Need You
We need volunteers to join the Education Advisory Council. This is meaningful, high-impact work – and we need representative voices from across the state and our member constituencies to ensure our programs truly serve their needs.
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Newly Licensed
We all understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following members for passing their exams and gaining licensure.
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Amber Book
Are you ready to get licensed? Access the ARE study materials – the Amber Book for 60 days for just $99.
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VANOMA Project Pipeline
Please consider contributing to VANOMA’s Project Pipeline. This enriching camp is designed to introduce students (grades 8–12) to the world of architecture and design.
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Bill Lecky
William “Bill” Prescott Lecky, FAIA, age 92, of Annapolis, MD, passed away peacefully on April 5th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
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Donate to the PAC
By speaking with a united voice, architects influence government actions that affect our profession and the quality of life for all Virginians. AIA Virginia uses the collective power of its membership to participate in the legislative and regulatory policy-making process.
www.aiavapac.org

Demystifying Fellowship for Small Firms
Please join the AIA Small Firm Exchange (SFx) for an exclusive panel discussion designed to shed light on the AIA Fellowship process and what it means for small firm practitioners.
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2026 AIA Firm Survey now in the field
Invitations were sent on March 25, with reminders continuing through late April. If you received an invitation, please participate! Didn’t get one? Request an invitation at economics@aia.org. The survey helps benchmark firm performance and inform AIA research and advocacy. Firms of all sizes are encouraged to participate.

Fast and Furious February!
I know, February is the shortest month of the year, but it certainly felt like a whirlwind for AIA Virginia.
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Register for Design Forum XVII
Tickets are going fast for Design Forum XVII, where you’ll hear from Marlon Blackwell, FAIA, Patricia Gruits, AIA, Ron Rael, and Mike Reynolds, who are the vanguards of change, risk takers whose means of practice challenge the standards of what it means to be an architect.
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ArchEx 2026 Call for Presentations
It’s time to submit your presentations for ArchEx 2026, November 4-6, 2026, in Richmond. The theme is Threshold, and presentations are due by April 30th.
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Steel School and Mill Tour
Join us on March 24th for an overview of the steel production process and tour of the Gerdau Steel Mill. Earn 4 AIA LU | HSW credits.
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179D and R&D Tax Credits
Section 179D has operated as intended and continues to reflect long-standing bipartisan support for incentivizing energy-efficient building design. Despite that successful impact, the program is now in danger, and the proposed sunset is nigh.
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VA COTE + USGBC Building Tour: Harvesting the Elements: How the Nature Conservancy Harnessed the Sun, Water, and Plants
Join AIA Virginia COTE and USGBC for our 2026 building tour series! We wish to celebrate exciting and innovative sustainable building design around the Commonwealth. Our April tour will be at the Nature Conservancy in Arlington, VA.
Register>>

J.E.D.I. Spotlight: Work Program Architects
See how firms can implement more equitable, human-centered practices.
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VA COTE + USGBC Building Tour: Highland Springs High School: Built for Performance
Join AIA Virginia COTE and USGBC for our 2026 building tour series! We wish to celebrate exciting and innovative sustainable building design around the Commonwealth. Our next tour will be Highland Spring High School in Richmond, VA.
Register>>

EDI Resources
This month, the AIA Virginia J.E.D.I. Committee encourages you to learn more about Ramadan.
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AIA Leadership Summit and Hill Day
Sincere gratitude to those who attended the AIA Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C., this past February. View some pics from our visit to Capitol Hill.
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2026 AIA Virginia Prize Jury Announced
Meet the Jury for the student competition that challenged students to create a Third Space in Bridgewater, Virginia.
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Historic Tour: Tangier Island History and Architecture Tour
Visit the island of Tangier, Virginia, with AIA Virginia’s Historic Resources Committee to learn about the community’s long history and insights about its built environment.
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Save the Date: AIA Virginia COTE Sustainability Summit – May 28th
From Vision to Action: The AIA VA COTE 2026 Sustainability Summit is a full-day event designed to spark inspiration, elevate practitioners’ insights, and generate tangible next steps for the profession.
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Designing the Future: Introducing James Madison University’s Architectural Design Program
James Madison University’s Architectural Design (ARCD) program is steadily emerging as a distinctive presence within Virginia’s architectural education landscape.
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Member Roundtables
Read about what your peers talked about at the recent Firm-Size, Non-Traditional, and Career Stage member roundtables.
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Welcome New Members
We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia. We’ve also included the new Emeritus members.
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February YAF Newsletter
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Update from the Strategic Council
Representative Shawn Mulligan, AIA, shares updates from the study groups who are actively researching the challenges, insights, best practices, and opportunities shaping the future of our profession. Study groups are focused on: Housing, Neuroarchitecture, Practice, Regenerative Design, and Value.
Read>>

Amber Book
Are you ready to get licensed? Access the Amber Book for 60 days for just $99.
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From AIA
Join the Women in Architecture and Design Committee Network
The Women in Architecture and Design Committee Network is a new online community for women and allies in architecture and design who want to connect, share resources, and learn from one another. Designed for those leading, supporting, or building WIA/WID committees, the network offers guidance on leadership, engagement, programming, funding, and long-term sustainability. Interested in joining? Complete the join request form. For questions or more information, reach out to Kirsten Swanson.

2026 Hill Day at the Virginia General Assembly
AIA Virginia members gathered at the Virginia General Assembly in Richmond for a Hill Day on February 3, 2026.
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LAB Program Applications Close in 2 days!
Applications are open until February 13th for the 2026 Leaders in Architecture & Business program. Apply today!
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Members Elevated
The American Institute of Architects elevates two Virginia architects to the College of Fellows.
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Design Forum XVII Speakers
Join us for Design Forum XVII and hear from Marlon Blackwell, FAIA, Patricia Gruits, AIA, Ron Rael, and Mike Reynolds, who are the vanguards of change, risk takers whose means of practice challenge the standards of what it means to be an architect.
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YAF 2025 Annual Report
Please take a look at what the Young Architects Forum accomplished in 2025.
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Associate Member Survey
Are you an associate member? Our StAR, Aidan Brown, would love to have you complete this short survey to help her serve you better.
Take the Survey>>

Historic Resources Committee Retreat
Please join the HRC for our annual in-person retreat on February 21st at Victory Hall in Scottsville, VA.
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ArchEx 2026…Threshold!
The call for presentations will open on March 11th. Learn more about the ArchEx 2026 theme, Threshold!
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Welcome New Members
We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia.
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COTE Corner
Join AIA Virginia COTE and USGBC for our 2026 building tour series! We wish to celebrate exciting and innovative sustainable building design around the Commonwealth. First up – Sadler Center at the College of William and Mary on February 19th.
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Firm Size and Non-Traditional Roundtables
Join your peers to discuss the issues and trends in your firms or non-traditional practice at the virtual meeting of the Firm Size and Non-Traditional Member Roundtables, February 25, 2026. FREE.
Register>>

Small Firm Exchange VA Update
It has been an exciting month. We had our first kick-off meeting on Jan. 22nd, and I feel like we are on a roll.
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Career Stage Roundtables
Join your peers to discuss the issues and trends of your career stage, then engage with members of the other career stages to really expand your network and knowledge. March 4, 2026. FREE
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AIA Virginia Prize Competition Weekend Complete
Over the January 30-February 2 weekend, the 2026 AIA Virginia Prize competition kicked off, with students from around Virginia participating for cash prizes.
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Gerdau Steel School and Mill Tour
Join us on March 24th for an overview of the steel production process and a tour of the Gerdau Steel Mill. Earn 4 AIA LU|HSW credits.
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Newly Licensed
We all understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following members for passing their exams and gaining licensure.
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Subject Matter Experts
Have you let us know your interest and expertise in a wide range of subjects? We are actively reaching out to members, using your expertise to influence legislators.
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Amber Book
Are you ready to get licensed? Access the Amber Book for 60 days for just $99.
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AIA Virginia Foundation
Tax-deductible donations can now be made for the AIA Virginia Prize, as well as the Amber Book and multiple scholarships.
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EDI Resources
Black to the Drawing Board is an educational platform exploring architecture, design justice, and the experiences of Black students and professionals in the built environment. Hosted by Daya Irene Taylor, Ph.D., AIA, NOMA—licensed architect, educator, and policy scholar.
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Hello, 2026!
As we begin the new year, many of us see this as an opportunity to start fresh and commit to self-improvement.
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Gearing up for the Virginia General Assembly
The pitch is being readied. The legislative players have been duly elected – and will in fact continue to be, owing to the knock-on effects of special elections.
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Hill Day is Coming Soon!
Members and their guests are invited to convene at the Virginia General Assembly to observe and perhaps even participate in the legislative advocacy process.
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Leaders in Architecture & Business Program
Applications are open until February 13th for the 2026 LAB Program. Apply today!
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Member Roundtables
Join your peers to discuss the issues and trends in your firms or non-traditional practice at the virtual meeting of the Firm-Size and Non-Traditional Member Roundtables, February 25, 2026. FREE.
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2025 By the Numbers
Thanks to our volunteer leaders and collaborators, led by President Meagan Jancy, AIA, here are the highlights from 2025.
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Design Forum XVII
The 17th Virginia Design Forum will be held on Friday, May 1, and Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg. Registration is opening next month.
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Meet the 2026 ELA Class
The 2026 class of Emerging Leaders in Architecture launched their year of leadership development sessions last week. Meet these exceptional young leaders.
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ELA Scholarship Awarded
The R. Corey Clayborne FAIA Scholarship has been awarded to a member of the 2026 class of Emerging Leaders in Architecture.
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Service through Gubernatorial Appointments
With a new administration sworn in this week, there are fresh opportunities to serve the Commonwealth.
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AIA Virginia Prize Competition
The 2026 competition takes place over the weekend of January 30. Faculty at James Madison University are finalizing the brief for the students of UVA, Virginia Tech, WAAC, Hampton, JMU, and William & Mary.
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LAB Program Informational Zoom
Join us on January 28th on Zoom to learn more about the Leaders in Architecture & Business program. This is your chance to hear from past participants and ask questions.
Register>>

Meet the Board
Welcome your 2026 Board of Directors, and thank you to those completing their service on the board.
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New YAR, John McKenna, AIA
In this role, I am eager to serve as the liaison between our local Emerging Professional (EP) community and the Young Architects Forum (YAF).
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Happy New Year from the SFx
The first National Small Firm Exchange meeting of the year will be held on Thursday, January 15th, and we will follow up with a Commonwealth-wide meeting the following Thursday, January 22nd.
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Welcome New Members
We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia.
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Newly Licensed
We all understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following member for passing their exams and gaining licensure.
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Amber Book
Are you ready to get licensed? Access the Amber Book for 60 days for just $99.
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ARE Prep for 2026
AIA Northern Virginia’s VIRTUAL 2026 ARE Prep Series kicks off TONIGHT with an NCARB Roundtable, followed monthly, February-July, with one-day virtual Saturday ARE Prep Classes.
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Remembering and Appreciating Ed Slipek
Edwin John Slipek, Jr., Hon. AIAVA, passed away on December 15, 2025, at the age of 75, following a brief illness.
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AIA Virginia Foundation
Tax-deductible donations can now be made for the AIA Virginia Prize.
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Review AIA’s Strategic Plan 2026-2030
AIA invites you to review the draft of AIA’s Strategic Plan 2026-2030 and share your insights to ensure our shared vision reflects the needs of our profession and communities.
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Featured Job Listings
VIA design – Project Architect https://www.aiava.org/project-architect-2/
VIA design – Project Leader https://www.aiava.org/project-leader-2/

PAC Opt-out
If you do not want any of your 2026 dues going to the AIA Virginia PAC, you can opt out here.
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Final Reflections for 2025
As we approach the end of the year, I find myself returning again and again to the themes that have guided me on this year’s journey as President: imagination, innovation, and collaboration.
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Procrastinator’s Series
Earn up to 7 more AIA LU | HSWs before December 31 when you attend these lunchtime webinars.
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Your membership renewal checklist
Set yourself up for success in 2026—review your member benefits and make sure your profile is up-to-date with the following checklist.

• Want your membership to auto-renew every year? Enroll today and we’ll waive the 3% credit card fee on your 2027 renewal!
• Want to spread your membership dues over time? Enroll in our payment plan and split your dues into six convenient monthly payments.
• Has your contact information changed? Update your profile & help AIA enhance your membership.
• Need to change your membership type? Use this form to update your membership.

Need to change your chapter? Use this form to transfer chapters

Historic Resources Committee Trivia Mixer
Join AIA Virginia’s Historic Resources Committee for our Virtual Trivia Mixer!
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Leaders in Architecture & Business (LAB) Program
Applications for the 2026 cohort open December 5!
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AIA Virginia Hill Day 2026
Soon after the 2026 Virginia General Assembly gavels into session, we will hold a Virginia Hill Day.
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Opportunities to Engage
As we gear up for the Presidency of Bill Hopkins, AIA, and welcome the incoming board members, we also invite you to consider deepening your engagement with our organization. Opportunities to serve on our many active Councils and Committees abound.
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Member Roundtables
Our Career-Stage, Firm-Size, and Non-Traditional Roundtables all met at Architecture Exchange East, November 6-7, 2025. Take a look at what was discussed and be sure to join us for these exchanges in 2026.
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38th Annual ArchEx
Thank you for attending Architecture Exchange East this year! We had a great time, and these pictures prove it.
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Small Firm Exchange Update
CJ LaMora, AIA, has been appointed as the Virginia State Representative to the National Small Firm Exchange (SFx).
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Welcome New Members
We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia.
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Visions for Architecture Gala 2025
Thursday, November 6, 2025, Design Award winners, Honorees, members, and guests gathered to celebrate the best of 2025. Please enjoy this gallery of photos from the event.
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Save the Date! Virginia Design Forum XVII
Save the Date for the 17th Virginia Design Forum, being held on Friday, May 1-Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg.
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Election Results from Annual Meeting
Did you miss the annual meeting on November 5th? Here’s a recap of the work done on your behalf and the members elected for 2026 service.
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Newly Licensed
We all understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following members for passing their exams and gaining licensure.
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New EDI Resource
If you are looking for information on job accommodations, the Americans with Disabilities Act or Rehabilitation Act, or topics related to disability employment, see these listings for various topics covered by the Job Accommodation Network (JAN).

Amber Book
Are you ready to get licensed? Get 60-day access to The Amber Book for $99.
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Featured Job Listings
Dalgliesh Gilpin Paxton Architects – Architect/Architectural Associate
Longhouse Architects – Architectural Designer/Intermediate Level Architect

AIAVA Foundation
Consider making an end-of-year gift to the AIA Virginia Foundation to support emerging professionals.
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PAC Opt-out
If you do not want any of your 2026 dues going to the AIA Virginia PAC, you can opt out here. More>>

From the EVP’s Desk
It’s time to appreciate the harvest of results from past and continuing labor, which is made more poignant when shared collectively.
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Online Registration Closes Oct. 29
Register before Friday, October 17th, to take advantage of discounted rates. Online registration will close on October 29th. On-site registration will be available beginning on November 5th.
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2025 Design Awards Announced
Join us in celebrating these 24 projects chosen for 2025 Design Awards at the Visions for Architecture on November 6, 2025.
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Annual Membership Meeting
The agenda and statements from the candidates for office are now available. Please plan to attend on November 6, 2025.
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Visions for Architecture Gala
Celebrate our 2025 Honors and Design Award winners on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. Tickets on sale until sold out or October 29th.
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Newly Licensed
We all understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following member for passing their exams and gaining licensure.
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PAC Award Announcement
It came down to the wire, but we have a winner. Who’s going home with $1,000 for Architecture Week?
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ELA Applications Due November 12
Applications are now open for the 2026 class of Emerging Leaders in Architecture. Make sure you complete your application in time to be considered for the 2026 class.
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ELA Informational Zoom Call
Join us for a one-hour Zoom call to learn more about the ELA program, hear past participants’ testimonies, and ask questions.
Register Here>>

Call for a New SFx Representative
It has been an honor and a truly rewarding experience, but it’s time to hand over the reins to another member who can benefit from this great opportunity.
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We Have Our Next StAR
Associates constitute almost twenty percent of AIA membership nationwide; twenty-three percent in Virginia.
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Save the Date – LAB Program 2026 Applications open December 5!
Are you an architect ready to elevate your career? LAB is an intensive, cohort-based program that provides you with the essential business acumen and leadership skills needed to thrive in today’s dynamic architectural world.
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Welcome New Members
We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia.
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Advocacy in Action
How AIA Virginia addresses procurement violations through violation letters.
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Disability in Architecture
“Where Are My People” series by Dr. Kendall A. Nicholson, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, and ACSA have a new installment on Disability in Architecture.
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Amber Book
Want to support our associate members on their path to licensure? Donate to the AIA Virginia Foundation. If you are ready to get licensed, we have discounted Amber Book subscriptions.
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COTE Corner
VA COTE Committee is meeting at ArchEx for a Coffee Networking session on Friday, November 7 from 8:00-8:45. Join us!
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LGBTQIA+ Alliance Outing: Happy Hour @ ArchEx
Join the AIA Northern Virginia LGBTQIA+ Alliance for a fun Happy Hour at Hotel Greene on Wednesday, November 5, at 7 PM. We will kick off the 2025 ArchEx conference with refreshments, mini-golf, and community connection in a lively environment. The event is free with advance registration.
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Get Registered, Get Set, Vote!
Voting is one of the most powerful ways to make your voice heard and help shape the future of your community, your state, and your profession. Citizen-Architects vote.
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Update to the Equity Guides
Turn awareness into action. The new Activation Kit builds on the foundation of AIA’s Guides for Equitable Practice and provides ready-to-use tools to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion in architecture. You’ll find the new slide decks + facilitation guides for each chapter on our EDI Resources page.
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The Dues Payment Installment Plan is Back!
You’ll be receiving your 2026 AIA Dues invoice soon. You can now set up a payment plan.
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Reconnecting with Our “Why”
As the seasons shift and we move into fall, I find myself reflecting on the deeper reasons we each chose this profession. Architecture asks much of us, as many of my previous letters cover – patience, persistence, and resilience.
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Annual Membership Meeting
Join us in person to hear about vital developments with your professional society, elect officers, and conduct other business at the AIA Virginia Annual Meeting of the Membership.
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Early Bird Discount Ends in 2 Days!
Save money on your Architecture Exchange East 2025 registration and make sure you get the tours and sessions you want by signing up by Friday.
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2025 AIA Virginia Honors
Celebrate with all of these honorees at the Visions for Architecture Gala on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott.
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Raising Architects: How IPAL Transforms Students, Firms, and the Profession
The Integrated Path to Architectural License, best known as IPAL, was born to improve the accessibility of licensure by creating a pathway that harkens back to a tradition of the past – apprenticeship as an integral part of the education of an architect.
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ELA 2026 Applications Open
Applications are now open for the 2026 class of Emerging Leaders in Architecture. Applications are due by November 12th.
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Updates from our Licensing Advisor
NCARB has been busy working on the objectives of its strategic plan and has had plenty of updates to share at the recent Licensing Advisor Summit, including some leadership changes and new resources for Advisors and Candidates.
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Newly Licensed
We all understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following members for passing their exams and gaining licensure.
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Harlow and Parker receive Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA Fellowships
The AIA Virginia Foundation joyfully announces Amanda Harlow, Assoc. AIA, and Stephen Parker, AIA, as the most recent recipients of the Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA Fellowship.
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APELSCIDLA Appointments; and an update on the Alternate Path
With recent appointee Harry Falconer, FAIA, joining Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA, and Tim Colley, AIA, members of AIA Virginia now occupy all three of the architecture seats on the APELSCIDLA Board.
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R. Corey Clayborne, FAIA Scholarship
In 2022, AIA Virginia established a scholarship in Corey’s name to honor his dedication to emerging professionals and provide financial assistance to those interested in participating in the AIA Virginia Emerging Leaders in Architecture (ELA) program. You can now donate to this scholarship fund through the AIA Virginia Foundation.
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PAC Award Update
Just a few more weeks to go in the 2025 PAC Award competition, and we still have a tie at the top of the leaderboard. Donate today!
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Historic Tour: Tangier Island History and Vernacular Architecture Tour
Visit the island of Tangier, Virginia with AIA Virginia’s Historic Resources Committee to learn about the community’s long history and insights about its built environment.
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Welcome New Members
We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia.
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What to Attend at ArchEx
Are you an associate or emerging professional and wondering what you should attend at ArchEx? Hear from our Associate Director, STAR, and YAR, about what they are excited to attend.
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2025 Design Awards Jury
Andrew Chin, Assoc. AIA, has mustered a tremendously dignified jury to deliberate over the 2025 Design Awards, which are scheduled to be announced to the membership on Friday, September 26th.
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Updates from the Small Firm Exchange
Lots to share from the SFx this month, including the All Call summaries, upcoming webinar on Fellowship, and a look inside the community conversations.
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COTE Corner
The Virginia Committee on the Environment is meeting at ArchEx for a Coffee Networking session on Friday, November 7, from 8-8:45 a.m. Join us!
Register>>

Coastal Virginia Town Hall
National, State, and Local AIA Presidents were together last month for a town hall discussion in Coastal Virginia.
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Statewide Resources McKenna and Robinson
During its August 2025 meeting, the AIA Virginia Board of Directors appointed John McKenna, AIA, as the Young Architect Representative (YAR) and reappointed Gina Robinson, AIA, as State Licensing Advisor.
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Outreach: Using Technology to Implement Meaningful Design in K-12 Schools
Clark Nexsen demonstrates how they use technology and computational design to create new opportunities for design in their K-12 studio.
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Secure and Resilient Commonwealth Panel Reappointment
Georgie Márquez-André, AIA of Andre + Marquez Architects, Inc., in Portsmouth, was reappointed to the Secure and Resilient Commonwealth Panel.
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Celebrating the Life of Bob Boynton, FAIA
Friends and family gathered at The Branch Museum of Design on Saturday, September 6, 2025, to celebrate the life and myriad accomplishments of Bob Boynton, FAIA.
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Amber Book
Ready to get licensed? AIA Virginia offers Associate AIA members a discounted 60-day Amber Book subscription.
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Revised Contract Standards for A/E Services
AIA Virginia and ACEC Virginia Collaborate with DGS to Revise Contract Standards for A/E Services.
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ArchEx 2025 Registration Opening Soon
Registration starts on Tuesday, September 2. Take advantage of the Early Bird rates until September 17.
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ELA 2026 Applications Open
Applications are now open for the 2026 class of Emerging Leaders in Architecture. Check with your local component for scholarship opportunities.
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A Call for Candidates
We are still searching for a StAR: could it be you?
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The Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA Fellowship
The call for applications is now open through August 22, 2025.
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ArchEx 2025 Keynote Panel Announced
Join us at ArchEx 2025 for our Kickoff and Keynote Panel Discussion with Margaret Cavenagh, AIA, LEED AP (Perkins & Will), Elliott Felix (Buro Happold), and Peter B. MacKeith, Assoc. AIA (Fay Jones School of Architecture + Design, University of Arkansas) Uncertainty to Opportunity: Designing Resilience in a Changing World.
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Thank you and all the very best to Irem Sezer
Please join us in wishing a fond adieu to Irem Sezer, Assoc. AIA. Irem joined the team in October 2023 as the AIA Virginia-Virginia Sea Grant Coastal Adaptation & Resilience Design Post-Graduate Research & Development Fellow.
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Building Reuse & Decarbonization Webinar Series Recap
Did you miss the Building Reuse & Decarbonization webinar series? You can watch the recorded webinars on our AIA Virginia YouTube channel here>>

Welcome New Members
We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia.
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Designing for LEED v5: What Architects Need to Know Now
Join AIA Virginia for a webinar about LEED v5 on Tuesday, August 19, from 12:00-1:00 pm EST.
Register>>

VA COTE Programming Interest Survey
Please take 2 minutes to give us your feedback about VA COTE programming.
Take the survey>>

Garland Appointed
Lynden Garland, AIA, has once again been appointed to the Art and Architecture Review Board by the Governor. Congratulations Lynden! Learn more about the state commissions and boards>>

PAC Award Update
We’ve got a tie at the top of the leaderboard for the 2025 AIA Virginia PAC Challenge. Your donation today could mean your chapter wins $1,000.
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Newly Licensed
We all understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following members for passing their exams and gaining licensure.
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EDI Resources
AIA’s Guides for Equitable Practice use real-world-derived best practices, relevant research, and other tools to help foster equitable, diverse, and inclusive firm cultures and work environments. Short on time? Read the Executive Summaries of each chapter>>
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AIA Virginia’s SME Portal
We have launched a portal through which members can indicate and self-report their interest and expertise in a wide range of subjects.
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Amber Book
Ready to get licensed? AIA Virginia offers Associate AIA members a discounted 60-day Amber Book subscription.
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Joseph Wisnewski
We recently learned of the passing of AIA Emeritus member Joseph Wisnewski.
Obituary>>

Design to Win: €10K Prize Pool & Exhibition at ArchEx 2025
The Field Station invites participants to design a multidisciplinary campus within the Shenk Property, a secluded nature reserve along Virginia’s Severn River (USA). Surrounded by wetlands and woodlands, this site offers a unique opportunity to blend architecture with one of the East Coast’s most sensitive ecosystems.
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Featured Job Listings
HEDS Architects in Charlottesville is looking for a designer with 1-5 years of experience with a degree in Architecture from an accredited college or university.
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President’s Letter
Embracing Adaptability in Design and Resilience in an Ever-Changing World.
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ArchEx 2025 – Keynote Speaker Announced
Save the dates for the 38th Architecture Exchange East, November 5-7, plus one of our keynote speakers has been announced!
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A Call for Candidates
AIA Virginia and its members benefit enormously from dedicated, effective, and passionate volunteers serving in many positions, many of which will soon need to be filled. Take a look at how you can serve.
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The Helene Combs Dreiling FAIA Fellowship
The call for applications is now open through August 22, 2025.
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Designing for LEED v5: What Architects Need to Know Now
Join AIA Virginia for a webinar about LEED v5 on Tuesday, August 19, from 12:00-1:00 pm EST.
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Building Reuse and Decarbonization Webinar Series
The AIA Virginia Historic Resources Committee (HRC) and the AIA Virginia COTE have partnered and created a 4-part webinar series that brings together leading experts in architecture, interior design, sustainability, and electrical engineering.
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COTE Corner
VA COTE Programming Interest Survey – Please take 2 minutes to give us your feedback about VA COTE programming.
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Design to Win: €10K Prize Pool & Exhibition at ArchEx 2025
The Field Station invites participants to design a multidisciplinary campus within the Shenk Property, a secluded nature reserve along Virginia’s Severn River (USA). Surrounded by wetlands and woodlands, this site offers a unique opportunity to blend architecture with one of the East Coast’s most sensitive ecosystems.
More>>

PAC Award Update
The race is getting tighter in the 2025 AIA Virginia PAC Challenge. Donate today and your chapter could win $1,000.
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Welcome These New Members
We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia.
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Resiliency Week Recap
Did you miss the Resiliency Week webinar series? You can watch the recorded webinars on our AIA Virginia YouTube channel here>>

SFx Updates
The 2024 Annual Report for the AIA Small Firm Exchange>>
Small Firm Exchange Insider Report>>

Historic Resources Committee
The Virginia Historic Resources Committee is a knowledge community of the AIA Virginia, comprised of people with an interest in historic architecture, adaptive reuse of existing buildings, and other history-related topics. Join our monthly meetings to learn more and help plan events.
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Newly Licensed
We all understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following members for passing their exams and gaining licensure.
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Joseph “Ebo” Fauber
We recently learned of the passing of long-time member Ebo Fauber.
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And We Have a Winner!
See the birthday postcard designs coming soon to your mailbox.
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EDI Resources
The Guides for Equitable Practice use real-world-derived best practices, relevant research, and other tools to help foster equitable, diverse, and inclusive firm cultures and work environments.
More>>

AIA Virginia’s SME Portal
We have launched a portal through which members can indicate and self-report their interest and expertise in a wide range of subjects.
More>>

Amber Book
Ready to get licensed? AIA Virginia offers Associate AIA members a discounted 60-day Amber Book subscription.
More>>

Licensure Scholarship
Apply now for OTJ’s Licensure Scholarship for Black/African American Architects and Interior Designers.
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Fire Facilities Design Awards
The Fire Industry Education Resource Organization’s (F.I.E.R.O.*) Facilities Design Awards Program seeks to enhance the understanding of fire officials, mayors, city managers, budget directors, architects, and others of the functional requirements of a modern fire station.
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The Power of Imagination
In every challenge our communities face, architects have the opportunity to dream big and think boldly. More>>

Design Awards Deadline Next Friday
AIA Virginia’s Awards for Excellence in Architecture (also known as the Design Awards) recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past seven years.
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Building Reuse and Decarbonization Webinar Series
The AIA Virginia Historic Resources Committee (HRC) and the AIA Virginia COTE have partnered and created a 4-part webinar series that brings together leading experts in architecture, interior design, sustainability, and electrical engineering.
Register Today!

Historic Tour: Rosewell Ruins
Join the AIA Virginia Historic Resources Committee for a historic tour of the Rosewell Ruins in Gloucester, VA.
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Meet the Leaders in Architecture & Business (LAB) Class of 2025
AIA Virginia launched its first inaugural 2025 class of Leaders in Architecture & Business last month. Meet these exceptional leaders.
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Hugh C. Miller, FAIA Emeritus
Hugh C. Miller, 95, passed away peacefully May 12, 2025, at Bon Secours/St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, VA after a brief illness.
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Birthday Postcard Design Contest
The deadline is June 30! Here’s your chance to design the next AIA Virginia member birthday postcard. AIA Virginia will feature your design on the front of the birthday postcards sent to our members.
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Design to Win: €10K Prize Pool & Exhibition at ArchEx 2025
The Field Station invites participants to design a multidisciplinary campus within the Shenk Property, a secluded nature reserve along Virginia’s Severn River (USA). Surrounded by wetlands and woodlands, this site offers a unique opportunity to blend architecture with one of the East Coast’s most sensitive ecosystems.
More>>

PAC Award Update
AIA Central Virginia is back in front in the 2025 AIA Virginia PAC Challenge. Donate today and your chapter could win $1,000.
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Welcome These New Members
We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia.
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Small Firm Exchange: Diplomacy Workshop
Join us on June 20th for lunch, followed by a Diplomacy Workshop, presented by Rachel Greshem, Senior Director, Professional Practice Programs, AIA. Bring your own lunch, get to know each other, and catch up. Rachel will then present, along with real-life case studies and role-play negotiations!
Please RSVP on our Google calendar here>>

SFx Update
Read a summary of the latest Small Firm Exchange All Call about how to design for a changing climate.
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Newly Licensed
We all understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following members for passing their exams and gaining licensure.
More>>

COTE Corner
VA COTE Programming Interest Survey plus Building Reuse & Decarbonization Webinar Series – check it out!
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EDI Resources
Two new resources have been added. The Directory of Diverse Architects and Inclusive Framing Language Resource.
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Need to Renew your SAP certification?
Architects who are already SAP-trained but need to renew can do so at the CALOES link below, up to a year after they are required to renew.
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Subject Matter Experts
Help our advocacy efforts! Please take a moment to visit this portal where you can indicate and self-report your interest and expertise in a wide range of subjects.
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Amber Book
Ready to get licensed? AIA Virginia offers Associate AIA members a discounted 60-day Amber Book subscription.
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Featured Job Listings
VIA design – Construction Administrator
VIA design – Interior Designer
Longhouse Architects – Architect/Architectural Designer

Enhanced Self-Service Options for Members
AIA is committed to enhancing My Account by adding features that simplify membership management for our members. Now you can request a status change directly through your My Account. If you have recently been licensed, please log in at me.aia.org to initiate the status change process. Members can also use My Account to download past transaction receipts for dues and purchases, manage autorenewal enrollment, and initiate chapter transfers. Please note that emeritus requests still require Chapter review & approval and cannot be processed through the portal.