Category: Professional Development News

AIA Virginia’s award-winning Emerging Leaders in Architecture (ELA) program was developed in 2009 to jump-start the careers of young professionals. Conceived of and lead by a passionate steering committee of successful architects (ALL past ELA alumni!), the program was designed to share the things they wished they had learned in architecture school.

Each of the seven day-long sessions focuses on developing essential skills like community engagement, collaboration, firm creation, financial management, advocacy, public service, and much more. The remaining monthly sessions are dedicated to their class project from a region around the commonwealth.

Want to be a member of this elite group of leaders? The application for the 2026 class will be available in August. Contact Delaney Ogden for information on how to nominate an emerging leader or with any questions about the program.

We asked members of the ELA class of 2025 the same five questions. Get to know them better by seeing their inspiring answers.

Tom Becherer, Assoc. AIA

What Building evoked a strong reaction from you recently – either positive or negative?
While visiting my family who live in a condominium, I observed a new series of tall, skinny, town homes that were built across the street.  At first glance, they seemed fine, typical and nice.  They were tightly squeezed into the site but it’s an urban environment – that is expected.  However, when I started to look further into the details, I noticed that overall, the building was finished poorly.  The façade coping was damaged with clearly visible openings between it and the brick, gutters were misaligned, sealant on door and window trim was mismatched (trim was black, while the sealant was white) and overall, the quality of the building was low.  What’s sad about this is that it all comes down to one thing, a lack of care. 

What was the last book you read?
Modern Man – the Life of Le Corbusier, Architect of Tomorrow, by Anthony Flint

How did you discover your passion for Architecture?
At the time when I was an underclassman in high school, my family hired an Architect to design a new home for us and I was able to attend some of the design meetings.  Captivated by the work-lifestyle, I grew curious about what it took to be one.  It was always exciting to see the full-size drawings at home and read through the plans.  Fast forward to the build phase – the home was constructed on a modest piece of land my parents had purchased years earlier, where we would often camp in the existing barn.  It was almost unreal to see progress each time we would go to visit The Farm like it was growing and its personality was developing.  All of this from ideas, conversations, drawings, to a structure that was looking more and more habitable every couple of weeks.  Upon completion, the home was like nothing I had experienced before – tons of natural light, simplicity, unique details, and a layout that was never created before.  It felt like a prototype, a one-off, something special, and even its quirks gave it character.  It was through observing the process and having that personal experience with a building that I realized how impactful Architecture could be.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
Weather permitting, I always rely on getting my car out, dropping the top and going for a drive.  Nothing like feeling the breeze and shifting your own gears to clear the mind. 

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
Two things.  Stick with it, it will be hard at times.  Sometimes you’ll feel like you’re a rock star, and other times you might be browsing job listings, daydreaming about a different career.  That’s okay.  It will pay off, and your dedication will be seen by your peers who will be more and more willing to help you as a result.  Next – take care of yourself.  Given the first point, you can’t forget to treat yourself and relax.  You won’t be able to give it your all if your mind and body need rest.  Sometimes, the only way to keep going is to give yourself permission to take a break. 

Bianca Briscoe, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A few months ago, I got to see the Jefferson Scholars Foundation in Charlottesville, VA. On the exterior, it displays a beautifully broad variety of materials, all falling within the red, brown, or grey family. I appreciated the cohesiveness of the facade, with the stones complimenting the steel, and the woods complimenting the brick.

What is the last book you read?
I just recently picked up Rock My Soul by Bell Hooks after having it for a while. I am very invested in this wonderful, powerful author.

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
My passion for architecture started with construction. I had a love for construction and building since I was 9, my grandfather fed into that and let me help him build things around both our homes. He, a few years later, mentioned the word “Architecture,” saying I could learn how to design the buildings. The word “design” fueled my curiosity, and since then I’ve had a deep love, interest, and appreciation for all facets and sectors that come together to ensure a building exists.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
My favorite thing to do to relax is laying in the sun. I used to live close to a huge park with a beautiful sunset. It feels great to turn your brain off for some time. Other activities I love to do, that require a bit of brain power, are painting and puzzles.

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
There is so much to learn and know. Embrace the creativity and interdisciplinary nature that is Architecture. Respect and appreciate the various professions that contribute to the efforts of a successful construction! It’s a beautiful process.

Aidan Brown, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
The Lyric Theatre, a historic theatre located in Blacksburg, Virginia, recently celebrated its 95th anniversary. They hosted a speakeasy-themed event with dancing, hors d’oeuvres, and games. It was such a fun night! Not only was it a lively celebration, but it was also a wonderful way to support a local nonprofit and a historic pillar of the Blacksburg community. What stood out to me most was how such a small space could feel so alive and energetic when the community comes together in support of something meaningful.

What is the last book you read?
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
It was almost accidental. I liked architecture while I was in school, but I often felt like I was in over my head. It wasn’t until I started practicing professionally that I truly felt like I belonged in this field. I discovered a love for working with consultants, writing proposals, seeing the excitement in a client’s eyes when we visualize a space together, and realizing the real impact design can have on a community. It took time, but that collaboration with other professionals — and with the community itself — made me realize I had found the right path.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
I love playing trivia around town, cooking, and spending time in the pottery studio. Pottery has become one of my favorite forms of artistic expression. It’s one of the few activities where I can fully enter a flow state. Even if a piece collapses or doesn’t turn out perfectly, I still feel deeply connected to the process and to the piece of clay in front of me. It’s a rewarding reminder that growth often comes from experimentation and patience.

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
I think it is crucial to learn how to balance humility and self-advocacy. Early in your career, it’s important to listen deeply, seek feedback, and stay open to learning from those around you. Growth often comes from patience and reflection. At the same time, it’s essential to trust your instincts and to know when it is appropriate to ask questions or to advocate for your needs. Balancing when to listen and when to step up is one of the most important lessons I’ve learned so far.

Brendon Glover, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
To be honest, there hasn’t really been a building that has evoked a strong reaction from me recently. Although there was a time when I was entering a building and the door that should have been a “push” ended up being a “pull”. That was pretty annoying.

What is the last book you read?
I mostly listen to audiobooks while I work to help with my focus. The last book series I have listened to has been Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman. The audiobook is narrated by Jeff Hays, and he does an amazing job with all the voices. It’s a funny and deeply entertaining RPG book that I have yet to see elsewhere. It’s a specific genre of fiction that I wish more books did well. Once I started it, I didn’t put it down until I caught up with the recent release.

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
I have always been interested in architecture ever since I was a child. My family always told me that when I was young, I would talk about growing up to become an architect. As I got older my design tools evolved with me, going from Legos to videogames to drawing / doodling to studio work. I view architecture as both my career and hobby, so my brain never really turns the “interest in design” portion off.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
I love putting on a TV show and water coloring. Its very therapeutic to me and I can get lost for hours doing it.

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
It’s a piece of advice I’m still learning to listen myself: “Stop focusing on what everyone else is doing around you.” Your career in architecture isn’t always going to be linear and standard. The architecture field is vast with many different life paths and each one of those paths are valid choices. Not everyone is on the same journey as you so, you need to not compare yourself to others. Find what in architecture gets you excited and use that to motivate you. It’s so easy to become fixated on how everyone else is doing that you lose what things make your own experiences special.

Malia Hayes, AIAS

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
Norfolk Burleigh Heads
Residential Building by Koichi Takada Architects had a positive reaction from me recently. I like the way the louvers are used in the facade and how it plays with the sun, while still providing privacy. 

What is the last book you read?
The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho

How did you discover your passion for architecture? 
In high school, I was given the opportunity to work with an architect and it helped sparked my interest. After that I continued to research the profession.     

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
Read and take walks

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
Try not to compare yourself to others, everyone has a unique style. 

Amira Jones-Faggins, AIAS

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A building that evoked a strong reaction from me recently was my childhood home. Although I am now at college and have, lived elsewhere for sometime now. Seeing my childhood home is always a reminder of the importance of giving to soul to architecture. Whether it to transportation, or downtown squares, it our purpose to not only protect and preserve but also permeate spaces with an intersection of functionality and personality. 

What is the last book you read?
The last book I read was Escaping the Housing Trap by Charles L. Marohn Jr. and Daniel Herriges. I actually read this as a part of a book club with an organization Emerging New Urbanists. This book did a great job of detailing how and why America and the broader world is experiencing a housing crisis and gives “suggestions” and possible solutions to the problem at hand. I would recommend this to anyone who had a passion for urbanism. 

How did you discover your passion for architecture? 
I discovered my passion for architecture when I took a French Exchange trip during my senior year of high school. Being able to see the way of life of those who lived abroad and comparing it to my life growing up here in the States opened my eyes to a new world of possibilities for architecture. Through this in many other experiences along the way, iPhone to believe that the home is the foundation to generational wealth. With that, I plan to Transform the Way Black America Lives™️. 

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
My favorite thing to do to relax is to meditate or go for a walk. 

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
I am the youngest participant in the 2025 class of ELA. So to aspiring architect like myself, I would say three things. 1) know that there is always work to be done. As a student of architecture you are signing up for a lifelong journey of not only creativity and inspiration, but also real work. 2) Get intrigued and do your research. There is so much to learn, past and present about your craft and doing this will help you find your own style as you matriculate through any level of school or life. 3) Always remember your why. It is easy for anyone to lose site of their goal. Never take your eyes off of the prize! 

Sheinya Joseph, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
African American Museum in Washington D.C.

What is the last book you read?
The Color of Law

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
I discovered my passion for architecture as a kid, watching HGTV and being drawn to Pinterest boards filled with housing and how spaces could be both beautiful and functional

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
Read or meditate

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
Be curious beyond the building. Architecture isn’t only about the building its about the people, culture, and context. Its about the relationship of the neighborhoods that form the city/town and how does your block or building build onto that relationship to serve its community.

Bhargavi Murthy, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
The Whitney Museum building in New York City. I think there’s something incredible about the way it frames the city and the river, in relation to and along with the art in its galleries. It weaves the inside and the outside in dramatic ways, such that the spaces to pause and ponder become as important as the galleries themselves. I visited when an Edward Hopper show was on display, and it felt as if the roofscapes in his paintings were in silent conversation with the city roofscapes unfolding outside.

What is the last book you read?
The Art of Architectural Grafting, by Jeanne Gang

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
I remember falling in love with architecture during my first semester of school in a fundamentals of design class. I fell in love with it once again while teaching a fundamentals of design course to first-years students in graduate school. Although I knew at a young age that I wanted to be an architect, I can’t really say that I knew what it was all about until school made me think about the world more critically.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
I enjoy cooking and sometimes take very long walks to unwind.

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
I recently stumbled upon a video clip of Liz Diller being asked a similar question, and her answer got me thinking. Her advice was that following politics—being political—was important to create relevant architecture. While I agree that creating relevant architecture is indeed political, one could argue that the act of creating architecture is in itself political, whether in meaningful ways or not. Building things is expensive—ecologically, financially and culturally. In my view, creating relevant architecture comes down to philosophy. The field of study and your guiding principles—the boundaries of the latter need to be pushed and challenged for growth, and the former has immense potential to do so. I think their relationship is highly underrated in design pedagogy, and my advice to aspiring architects would be to therefore learn philosophy where you can. Everything you create would then be made with intent, and should it be political, it would be meaningfully so.

Monica Ocampo, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently?
The Pagoda & Oriental Garden located in downtown Norfolk, VA. Surrounded by multi-family housing, the pagoda stands in the center of the Oriental Garden off the coast of the Elizabeth River. This building stands out in a fast-paced city where the naturalistic environment embraces many of the Chinese concepts and culture. As tourists & locals come to explore downtown Norfolk, this unique secret garden helps to change the pace of the city and enjoy the scenery before going back to your daily life.

What is the last book you read?
Gothikana by Runyx. It is a dark contemporary standalone that will keep you at the edge of your seat. If you’re into thriller, mystery, psychological conflicts, & challenging societal norms, come and talk to me.

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
During my first internship at Gensler we had to research different fields that was heavily impacted by COVID. One of them was hospitality – mainly hotels. Our objective was to redesign how this hotel would be like and function if another wave of COVID hits again. My focus was the functionality of the building. Solely relying on its own resources without using the city’s resources. I was fascinated about being able to modify the mechanical equipment & plumbing system to a renewable system for heating & cooling the space and providing non-potable and potable water. Since then, I’ve done that for all of my school projects all the way up to thesis.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
Getting lost into a fantasy/dark fantasy book where all things are possible.

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
Discovering new interests outside of architecture can help you stay creative as you age since the best architects do. Remember, “We’re all mad here.” – Alice in Wonderland

Anna Orlando, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
I recently had the privilege of attending the ribbon cutting ceremony for Cobb and Shumway Halls at the University of Virginia—a milestone moment that brought my professional journey full circle. This project began for me in 2019 at Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA), where our team focused on the design of Shumway Hall, a new building for the McIntire School of Commerce. After 7.5 years at RAMSA and relocating to Richmond last year, I joined Glavé & Holmes Architecture, the firm tasked with the rehabilitation of the historic Cobb Hall. Experiencing this project through the lens of both firms and scopes—new construction and historic preservation—has been incredibly rewarding and formative. It was surreal to finally walk through the spaces I once only knew in SketchUp and Revit. To see both the new and old buildings standing proudly side by side was not only gratifying, but also a meaningful reminder of why I chose to specialize in higher education and historic preservation. I’m deeply grateful to both RAMSA and Glavé & Holmes for the opportunity to contribute to this project and for supporting my growth as a designer and preservationist.

What is the last book you read?
The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
Like many in this industry, I discovered my passion for architecture in high school, where a love for both fine art and math naturally pointed me toward the field. But my deeper interest in historic preservation has more personal roots. Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio as a third-generation Italian American, I was surrounded by a family baking business with stories, buildings, and traditions that shaped my family’s history. That sense of continuity between past and present instilled in me a deep appreciation for the cultural and architectural legacies we inherit—and the responsibility to preserve them.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
Outside of architecture, I find joy in cooking, exploring the outdoors with my dogs, and walking through cities—always sightseeing, always observing, and always taking photos. These everyday experiences fuel my creativity and remind me of the human scale that makes great architecture truly meaningful.

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
My advice to aspiring architects: follow the projects and people that truly inspire you. Life’s too short to stick to a straight and narrow path. Do what excites you most, and your career will grow in ways you couldn’t have planned—but wouldn’t change for anything.

Andi Pretlow, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
During my visit to Barcelona, I had the chance to tour the Casa Batllo, designed by Antoni Gaudi and I fell in love with the artistic expressions incorporated in the building. Gaudi’s use of light, color and sculpturesque design was extraordinary and I could stay there for hours taking in his designs.

What is the last book you read?
Piranesi by Susanna Clark

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A big influence on me was my Mom’s cousin who is an architect and professor. One summer, he saw me drawing at the dining table and asked me what I wanted to be when I was older. My 12-year-old mind at the time wasn’t sure, but I knew I wanted to do something creative and influential on the community. He of course introduced me to the idea of architecture and how I could bring my drawings to life and make impactful effects on the environment and communities throughout the world. This small conversation was truly inspiring to me at a young age and encouraged me to look at design in a whole new light and I am so grateful that it has led me to where I am today.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
To relax, I enjoy reading and listening to music. I also do pottery for fun, but also sell my work at local farmers markets!

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, more specifically, “why” we do things a certain way. We are in a field where the world is constantly changing and therefore our work is always evolving, so how we handle a situation on one project might not be the same for the next. We are in a constant state of learning, so never feel like your questions are not valid, who knows maybe you and your team will learn something new all because you asked.

Ayesha Javeed Shaikh, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
Centre for Development Studies (CDS) in Thiruvananthapuram, India, designed by Laurie Baker.
I had the chance to visit it during my undergraduate years, and the experience has stayed with me. What struck me was how effortlessly the building blended with its environment, featuring exposed brick, jaali walls, and organic forms that responded to both climate and culture. The way light filtered through brick screens and courtyards created quiet, unexpected moments that reshaped how I thought about architecture. It showed me that great design isn’t always about grand gestures, but about creating spaces that feel natural, welcoming, and deeply connected to their context. That visit changed how I approach design and what I value in the built environment.

What is the last book you read?
Digital Fortress by Dan Brown. I like a little old-school thriller.

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
My passion for architecture was sparked by my early travels (thanks, Mom and Dad), where I had the opportunity to experience a wide range of architectural styles both in my homeland and abroad. Those experiences made me realize that, despite differences in form, culture, and materiality, spaces around the world can evoke the same sense of comfort, belonging, and connection.
That initial curiosity grew into a deeper belief that thoughtful design can positively shape people’s lives. I’ve always been creatively inclined, and architecture offered the perfect balance between artistic expression and real-world impact — a profession where creativity could be both personal and purposeful. Moving forward, my goal is to continue growing as a designer, creating spaces that inspire and enhance daily life, while exploring how architecture and community engagement can intersect to create meaningful, positive change.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
Watch the sunset while walking home from work and experimenting with new and familiar recipes in the kitchen.

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
Architecture offers a platform to explore creativity through your own lens and understanding. It provides the freedom to express personal interests through design. Even after seven years of studying architecture, I continue to learn something new every day. It’s a profession that not only nurtures creativity but also channels it into a meaningful and impactful career.

Brett Shifflett, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
Ever since my undergraduate studies, where I explored the cultural and architectural spectacle of Las Vegas, I’ve been curious about what experiencing it firsthand would actually feel like. I recently had the chance to visit for the KBIS conference, and while the event itself was engaging, I found myself put off by the city’s overwhelming sense of artificiality. Everything felt meticulously staged and disconnected from any real sense of place or identity. In contrast, a visit to the ARTE Museum offered a refreshing and unexpectedly moving experience. Walking through its immersive exhibits was truly mesmerizing. It was a reminder that art does not just hang on walls; it can surround you, shift your senses, and pull you into something deeper. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a more thoughtful, emotionally resonant escape within the spectacle of Vegas.

What is the last book you read?
A Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
I grew up surrounded by builders and was always drawn to the world of construction, but I knew early on that I wanted to know the why and not just the how to the art of building. In high school, I started taking drafting classes, and from there, my passion for design and architecture steadily grew. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work on projects across the country ranging from large-scale public spaces like airports and train stations to small-scale office renovations. Through that wide range of experience, I discovered that renovation and addition work resonate with me most. I love the challenge and creativity involved in solving the puzzle of integrating new designs with existing structures; matching aesthetics, materials, and intent to create something both seamless and fresh. Today, I work at Alloy Workshop, where I’m fortunate to collaborate on a diverse array of projects, both in type and scale. I especially enjoy working within a Design-Build model where I interact closely with tradespeople and contractors to bridge the gap between digital design and the built reality.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
I try to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Whether it’s working with my wife at her farmers markets, spending time on our homestead, or continuing to develop our family compound, these moments keep me grounded. I value the time spent with family and friends and seize the opportunities as they come.

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
Try everything. Take the time to explore the many ways architecture influences people and environments, and discover what truly resonates with you. The skills and mindset you develop as a designer, and eventually as an architect, are incredibly versatile and far more rare than they may seem. It took me a while to realize that studying architecture is not just about buildings; it is a shift in your mindset on learning to think differently. It teaches you to approach problems from unique angles and to craft thoughtful, creative solutions that others might not see. That way of thinking is powerful and will stay with you no matter where your career leads.

Benjamin Sturkie, Assoc. AIA

What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
Earlier this year I visited the Hirshhorn Museum in Washington, DC to see the Basquiat x Banksy exhibit. I really enjoyed the circular exhibition space as it felt the museum could go on forever – much like the Guggenheim. I was a bit underwhelmed by the central courtyard space, however.

What is the last book you read?
I have a very bad problem of not finishing books so I tend to jump around and read little bits of a couple books at a time. Recently I’ve enjoyed reading Elements of Architecture by Rem Koolhaas; Swissness Applied by Nicole McIntosh and Jonathan Louie; and other graphics/architecture books

How did you discover your passion for architecture?
I’ve always been interested in art/design and have always enjoyed working with people. Through joining various organizations in high school I found fulfillment in service leadership and had no idea how well architecture could pushed through this idea. I’ve been a lifelong learner and this field allows me to explore numerous interests under one umbrella.

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
I enjoy spending time with friends and family the most. On the weekdays I like to cook meals at home and play video games with friends. On the weekends I like spending time trying different food spots in the area and going to the beach when possible.

What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
My advice would be to really dive deep into topics you’re interested in. Not only is it valuable to have people who are experts in certain fields, but it shows a passion and desire to continue learning and fine tune your design. Nonetheless I think it’s also always important to push the boundaries of design and think of new possibilities.