How amazing it will be to return to our annual gathering of friends and colleagues in November as we assemble for Architecture Exchange East 2022! For the post-pandemic ArchEx, we are retaining the best bits from the past, refining other bits, and adding new bits to create (and curate) a lighter and brighter ArchEx as we explore the conference theme of “(re)Building Community.”
“Always design a thing by considering it in its next larger context – a chair in a room, a room in a house, a house in an environment, an environment in a city plan.”
~ Eliel Saarinen
As I contemplated possible topics for this month’s newsletter article, I decided that concentrating on our largest gathering of architects was well worthy of the space and attention. Mr. Saarinen’s quotation seems the perfect representation of our intentional ‘redesign’ of Architecture Exchange East. We are doing more than reinvigorating this significant member event; we are enlivening it in a way that will have our members and stakeholders departing genuinely uplifted, with their batteries fully recharged.
Energizing all aspects of the conference aligns with our desire to make it more aspirational and inspirational for everyone through enhancements to the exhibit hall, educational programming, marketing and promotions, hospitality, social events, and other major components. Foremost in our minds, in each and every way, is elevating your experience as an attendee.
Arriving in your inbox this week was your invitation that explains all of the opportunities for networking collegially, growing professionally, and rebuilding societally. We hope this stimulates your interest in participating in a wholly redesigned user experience – one that promises to be awesome for attendees, vendors, exhibitors, sponsors, and speakers alike.
Join in the newness … join in the coolness … November 2-4 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. I cannot wait to see you there for “(re)Building Community!”
Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA Interim Executive Vice President
“In nature we never see anything isolated, but everything in connection with something else which is before it, beside it, under it and over it.” ~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Yes, Colleagues and Friends, I have returned! Actually, I was quite honored to be asked by the AIA Virginia Board of Directors to facilitate a smooth and successful leadership transition between the incredibly dedicated and accomplished R. Corey Clayborne, FAIA, and your new chief executive. This places me in this spot until December and I look forward to seeing many of you in the coming months, especially at Architecture Exchange East in early November.
Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA
Some years ago when I ran for the AIA presidency, I introduced the concept of ‘the aspen effect’ as a way of imagining the AIA. That analogy became the foundation of my leadership tenure as well as the inspiration for other roles and initiatives since. It occurred to me that I might share this analogy with my Virginia peeps, and explain how wonderfully well this applies to us here at AIA Virginia.
Above the ground, aspens stand tall and sturdy as individual trees, but below grade, they are interlinked through their elaborate root system. (This is why one never sees an aspen tree standing alone; they are always in groves.) Similarly, AIA Virginia serves as the web of nourishment and enrichment for its members, helping them to survive and thrive. Aspen trees are sometimes brilliant in a burst of fabulous fall color; at other times, they ‘quake’ under the force of a powerful wind. However, no matter what their environment imposes on them, aspens are always supported by their strong network of roots, depending on that interconnectivity for their well-being and vibrancy.
The AIA Virginia I know IS that nurturing wellspring of support. The connector. The network. The collective. Moreover, in every decision we make and every action we take, we should assure that we are advancing the profession as well as positioning our members as valued contributors to community and society.
The dedicated leadership and devoted staff team of your professional society within our state hold the professional vitality and economic viability of each individual member in Virginia foremost in their minds. For my part, as the organization’s chief executive for these next few months, I shall encourage us to apply ‘the aspen effect’ to nurture an organizational and cultural outlook that focuses on the professional wellbeing of each and every member.
Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA Interim Executive Vice President AIA Virginia
2020 NCARB President’s Medalists for Distinguished Service
Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA
Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA, of Massanutten, VA, is recognized for her outstanding leadership of both the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA). As interim executive director of the NAAB, Dreiling led the organization through a period of critical reflection and restructuring. Her efforts transformed the NAAB and built lasting partnerships both within and outside the realm of architectural education. Her commitment to efficiency and professionalism facilitated a new dynamic with NCARB, its staff, and its volunteers. In addition, Dreiling was elected the 90th president of the AIA after over 18 years of service with the organization. During her tenure in 2014, she oversaw a repositioning of the organization with a focus on cultural transformation, while also promoting efforts to support students, emerging professionals, and young architects.
The highest honor bestowed upon architectural professionals by NCARB—the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service—is awarded each year to individuals in recognition of their outstanding contributions and dedication to the Council and the architectural profession.
2020 Laudatories
NCARB wishes to express its sincere appreciation to Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA for her invaluable contributions to the Board of Directors, the Council and its mission, and the regulation of the architecture profession.
Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA Helene Combs Dreiling stepped away from her role as the interim executive director of the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) after leading the organization through a critical restructure, re-energizing its focus on the accreditation of architecture education programs, and strengthening the relationship between NAAB and the Council. She helped guide the development of the groundbreaking 2019 Accreditation Review Forum, ensuring the contributions and collaboration of each of the five collateral organizations for the betterment of the education continuum. NCARB President Terry Allers is awarding Dreiling the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service in 2020.
At mid-year, we take a look back at the accomplishments of AIA Virginia this year was shared with the membership during our virtual membership meeting on June 16, 2017. First and most transformational, the organization has implemented the strategic plan as the focus of board and council meeting agendas giving all board members the ability to engage and have a voice in a meaningful way.
2017 AIA President Bill Brown, AIA
With thanks to Maggie Shubert, AIA, Marshall Dreiling, and our AIA Virginia staff, we launched a very successful inaugural Art of Practice Conference which will be an annual alternating companion event to the Design Forum. This opportunity brought practitioners from around the state to share ideas on the business practice of architecture. To recognize the different climates we work within we initiated the creation of a small firm roundtable and a mid-size firm roundtable. Continuation of the large firm roundtable which had been convened three years ago elevated the conversation of how AIA Virginia is of value and relevant to these firms in light of our needing their continued support with the planned phase-out of supplemental dues.
Through our Government Advocacy Council, we continued our successful legislative activities. Efforts lead by Rhea George, Hon. AIA Virginia guided the development and approval by the board in our June 16th meeting of AIA Virginia’s Directory of Public Policy and Position Statements. Also, I want to highlight that all statewide legislators and the three elected offices are up for election this year so support our PAC so that we can continue our valuable relationships with incumbents that have worked toward our mutual vision of the built environment in Virginia.
Under the guidance of Nick Vlattas, AIA, we conducted a successful nationwide search for a new EVP and have appointed the amazing Corey Clayborne, AIA. His commitment to the service to the profession and to the individual members that make up our AIA family is unparalleled. As July starts he has already begun his position and is implementing his 30/60/90 day plan. We see great things to come in our collective future with Corey at the helm!
This is a special moment in time for AIA Virginia as the seasons change we are experiencing a notable change ourselves. This past June 30th marked the departure of our esteemed EVP and my friend, Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA, and the arrival of Corey Clayborne, AIA, at this same post. I can’t think of two persons that have been and are so passionate, focused and exemplary to lead our organization. Together AIA Virginia has re-envisioned and transformed the organization under Helene’s leadership to be member focused, transparent in our governance, financially sustainable and of value to the architects in the Commonwealth. There is a seamless transition underway that warrants a great confidence in the organization.
For her part, Helene has gone far above and beyond the call of duty in her role as leader. She has used her nurturing spirit and passion for architecture to strengthen our organizations working tirelessly to effect positive change. I want to share a personal side of saying farewell to my friend Helene as she and I were in the same architecture class at Virginia Tech and I had the privilege of speaking for AIA Virginia at the recent Branch Museum event to recognize her tireless service to our organizations. When Helene ran for president of the American Institute of Architects, she did so on a platform of cultural change. As Virginia architects watched with pride at her inauguration in 2014, we were confident in her leadership and her capacity as a change-maker for our National organization. She brought this same spirit to AIA Virginia and The Branch and both organizations are better for it.
Throughout her career, Helene has dedicated herself to mentoring young professionals and advocating on their behalf. As the volunteer leaders of AIA Virginia pondered a fitting way to acknowledge her contributions to our profession, we could think of no more appropriate recognition than the naming of the Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA Studio. This space at the Branch will permanently honor Helene’s legacy by fostering the cultivation of interns at the cusp of their professional lives. This cause has been a cornerstone of Helene’s professional career, and The Studio will be used to nurture the growth and development of the many interns who come to The Branch each year. It is a fitting symbol to honor her dedication to and support of both the profession of architecture and The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design.
RICHMOND, VA May 1, 2017— AIA Virginia is pleased to welcome R. Corey Clayborne, AIA, in his new role as AIA Virginia Executive Vice President/CEO starting Thursday, June 1. He will work in conjunction with departing AIA Virginia Executive Vice President/CEO Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA, whose last day in the position is Friday, June 30.
“Clayborne comes to us with a unique set of qualifications,” says AIA Virginia Immediate Past President and Search Committee Chairperson Nicholas E. Vlattas, AIA. “He is an architect known for his leadership skills and his active participation in the American Institute of Architects on local, state and national levels. We look forward to working with him to mentor the next generation of architects and strengthen architecture and design professions at all levels.”
Currently project manager and senior architect with Wiley |Wilson, his responsibilities include financial health, quality control, operational management and project management for a wide variety of local, state and federal projects. Clayborne is particularly known for his mentorship of the next generation of architects, focusing on their entry into the AIA, licensure and professional and personal group. He has been active in AIA Richmond and AIA Virginia, serving on both boards of directors. He has won numerous awards including the AIA 2017 Young Architects Award and the AIA Virginia 2016 Award for Distinguished Achievement. His service to the community includes the Charlottesville Planning Commission, Virginia Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers, and Landscape Architects and the 100 Black Men of Central Virginia Mentoring program.
Clayborne lives in Charlottesville. He graduated from his hometown high school, Gloucester High before going to Virginia Tech where he earned his degree in architecture. He will be AIA Virginia’s sixth Executive Vice President/CEO since the position was created in 1970. Clayborne was one of 70 candidates who applied for his new position.
Dreiling is planning to focus on her own consulting firm. Through her company The Plum Studio, Ltd. she will provide specialized creative and consulting services to non-profits and design firms. Her offerings will be based on her leadership and management experience and will include cultural transformation, leadership development, corporate governance, change management, professional coaching, organizational resilience and strategic visioning
About AIA Virginia
AIA Virginia is a society of the American Institute of Architects and represents nearly 2,500 architects throughout Virginia. Founded by five architects in 1914, AIA Virginia is the voice of the architecture profession in the Commonwealth, dedicated to serving its members, advancing their value, and improving the quality of the built environment. For more information, contact AIA Virginia at (804) 644-3041 or visit www.aiava.org.
“I’m not afraid of the new ideas. I’m afraid of the old ones.” ~ John Cage
As I began considering the potential focus for this June edition of my bi-monthly newsletter article, I thought I would perhaps simply write about something of general importance to the profession or the organization, and steer clear of a ‘farewell address.’ But, this is my only such opportunity. So I hope my colleagues and friends will bear with me as I share a few thoughts prior to my departure.
Many individuals have recently asked me about my “proudest achievements” in my positions as EVP of AIA Virginia and Executive Director of The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design. My response to them has been one that jumped to mind and it applies to both organizations, but in different ways: CULTURE. This might be familiar to some of you, who knew that I focused on a “cultural transformation for the profession” when I ran and served as President of the AIA in 2014. My message then: we need to act, think, and behave differently as architects if we are to be perceived in an enriched way by the public we serve. That is the same point of view I brought to both of these posts.
For AIA Virginia, that “cultural transformation” has been realized through focusing on the single member. As I’ve said to you before, every action we take or decision we make is with our dues-paying members in mind. This, you can believe. Often in the past, the AIA was criticized for keeping the organization going (as an entity) and not caring about the folks who comprise our membership (as individuals). We favor the opposite approach, where the member comes first. Members have noticed! Colleagues all over the state have stated that the organization ‘feels’ different. People are talking about AIA Virginia in many positive ways. Firms that had not been members in a long time are coming back into the fold. I’d like to think that the culture of the organization is, in fact, transformed.
Much of this has been possible because of a highly engaged and deeply committed Board of Directors, as well as ‘my’ three presidents who’ve been a joy to work with: Valerie Hassett, Nick Vlattas, and Bill Brown, to use their informal names. These people did – and are still doing – awesome work on your behalf. When I accepted this position, I insisted that our efforts be “about aspiration rather than appeasement.” (In other words, after being AIA president, I wanted to move our state-level AIA well forward as we launch into our next century.) Each of these leaders and their executive committees and boards have been all about the new AIA Virginia. I have been extremely impressed with – and inspired by – their courage to explore new worlds and their dedication to finding fresh ways of providing service and support to our members.
Speaking of dedication … and its very close cousin, devotion … there is not a stronger group than your staff team at AIA Virginia. They are simply incredible, and it has been my honor to serve with such a professional, hard-working, and loyal group: Judy Cheadle, Marshall Dreiling, Keesha Ezell, Rhea George, Cathy Guske, Rebecca Lonadier, and Edward Nace. All are willing to jump in to help in whatever capacity is needed, and all have been brave in stomaching the many changes I requested. They have worked like crazy, sometimes to the breaking point, and I cannot speak highly enough about them either individually or collectively.
And how about that Corey Clayborne? I am SO excited about his tenure! He’ll be a stellar representative of the profession to related organizations and a charismatic face and voice on behalf of our members. Not to mention an exceptional staff team leader. In other words, Corey is the perfect fit for the organization at this moment in time. I have every confidence that he, along with that brilliant staff team and outstanding board group, will elevate AIA Virginia to even greater heights.
Today, I extend my sincere appreciation to each of you for affording me this opportunity to serve the profession in our state and to support my fellow members. I’m a lifer, really … a true “AIA Junkie” … and I eagerly anticipate being a fervent member of our beloved AIA Virginia, forever …
“We must take charge of our own destinies, design a life of substance, and truly begin to live our dreams.” ~ Les Brown
Friday, March 31 brought the first Art of Practice Conference to AIA Virginia firm principals. It was a pleasure to welcome so many of the profession’s leaders to the inaugural experience. I especially want to again thank Maggie Schubert, AIA. Maggie graciously accepted her appointment as the chair of this first-ever event and has been dedicated to its success since that moment. We all have her to thank for envisioning and executing such a special member-focused conference.
Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA
The day centered, as the title suggested, on matters of import to architectural practice, particularly firm culture. It was (and will be) intended to complement the focus on design that is afforded by the ever-popular Virginia Design Forum. Art of Practice will take place on alternating years (odd years) with the Forum (even years). This program promises to be transformational for our profession within the Commonwealth, particularly as it grows and develops in the coming years.
In anticipation of the session, I recalled the inspiring words of noted African-American speaker Les Brown, quoted above. If we apply Mr. Brown’s admonition to ourselves, it reminds us that WE ALONE have the capacity to be the architects, the designers, of an enriched firm culture … of a transformed culture for the profession … and of an enhanced, “big-C” Culture for the public we serve. The Art of Practice Conference is our chance to design that future as it relates specifically to our practices. It offers the perfect opportunity for us to work collectively and collaboratively to chart a course toward a preferred future for this profession. As our firms grow stronger, the profession at-large in our state will be elevated as well.
Some 14 years ago, the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) rightly shown a spotlight on “studio culture” through their Studio Culture Task Force Report. We have all become sensitized to “studio culture” as a result of their great research and reporting. Schools now have stated expectations for the way students will be treated in the studio and in the classroom. The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) has included the requirement for a policy on studio culture in their Conditions and Procedures, and schools are ‘dinged’ if they don’t have a policy in place.
But what have WE, as a profession, done to transfigure firm culture? That is OUR part to determine and be dedicated to. Aspects of firm culture certainly impact our emerging professionals, yes. But, firm culture that is constructive, positive, and supportive inures to the benefit of all office team members, not only those just entering practice.
For this year, our conference focused on the aspects of firm culture that get at the heart of how individuals in this profession are engaged within their respective practice settings. I hope that beginning with Art of Practice, we’ll have a new and different conversation that leads to a new and different place. Better firm culture for ALL firms. Better experiences for all employees. Better outcomes for all clients. We can especially anticipate a more amazing future as a result of our efforts on behalf of our practices … and the profession.
This message was shared with all AIA Virginia members via email on Nov. 1, 2016.
ELECTRONIC MEMORANDUM:
DATE: November 1, 2016
TO: AIA Virginia Members
FROM: Nicholas E. Vlattas, AIA, President
RE: Executive Vice President/Chief Executive Officer Transition
During performance evaluation meetings with current EVP/CEO Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA held in June, the AIA Virginia Management Committee discussed with Helene her interest in extending her three-year employment agreement. Helene spoke very highly of serving the members of AIA Virginia, but indicated her desire to remain true to her initial commitment of what she considered an interim position – to successfully transition our organization from one long-time executive to another long-time executive.
I think many of us had hoped Helene would ‘change her mind’ and decide that she wanted to stay well beyond her original time frame and actually be that long-term exec. However, because of her intentions and interests at this point, and particularly in light of the phased elimination of Supplemental Dues as adopted in the FY2017 budget (July 1, 2016-June 30, 2017), she believes this timing is in the overall best interests of AIA Virginia. Thus, Helene’s tenure of service will conclude effective June 30, 2017.
This message has been conveyed to and discussed with the AIA Virginia Executive Committee and Board of Directors and now is being disseminated to our members, directly.
Our Bylaws call for the Board of Directors to be responsible for the selection of the EVP/CEO. In accordance with the prescribed process, I have appointed an EVP/CEO Search Committee for the purposes of identifying, interviewing, vetting, and recommending a new EVP/CEO for selection. I’m pleased that the following individuals have agreed to serve on the committee, which I’ll chair:
Valerie D. Hassett, FAIA, 2015 President (AIA Northern Virginia)
Eric Keplinger, AIA, 2018 President (standing for election, AIA Hampton Roads)
William T. Brown, AIA, 2017 President (AIA Northern Virginia)
Robert A. Steele, AIA, Director, Liaison to The Branch Board of Trustees (AIA Richmond)
Elisabeth Sloan, AIA, 2016 President, AIA Central Virginia
Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA (ex-officio without vote, AIA Blue Ridge)
A Position Description has been prepared and was reviewed and approved by the committee; it will be used for the search process. The committee will soon prepare evaluation criteria and potential questions to be utilized during interviews, in addition to other related tasks. They will commence the search process in November with interim reporting anticipated to the board in December and February and selection by April.
Should you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please feel free to reach out to me, as I would welcome your input. I know you will also want to join me in expressing our gratitude to Helene for her incredible dedication and commitment, as well as the achievements during her term as our EVP/CEO. We wish her the very best in the next phase of her professional life.
2016 President AIA Virginia
Nicholas E. Vlattas, AIA
Most of you have recently received your membership dues statement from 1735 New York Avenue, NW, the home of the American Institute of Architects. As we all consider this payment of our professional dues, I thought it might be beneficial to reflect on what our membership in the AIA should mean to us. (Keep in mind, this is coming from a self-proclaimed “AIA Junkie”):
Through the AIA, we have a shared heritage.
In 1857, thirteen men gathered in New York to form the American Institute of Architects. These gentlemen did not have a plastic card in their wallets; they did not have a pin to wear on their lapels; they did not have an acronym following their names. What they DID have was a vision in their minds and passion in their hearts for what the profession of architecture could become … IF there was a collective body … to unite in fellowship; to promote the profession; to advance the standards of education, training, and practice; and to increasingly serve society. These core values of the AIA, we should reflect upon as we design our own futures.
Yet, we have a wealth of individual experiences.
Now with over 89,000 members, the AIA serves as the collective voice of architects across the country and around the world. However, even though we as a profession are bound by our shared experiences in our respective paths through architectural education, training, and practice, we each approach our work – and our passion – as individuals. Every member of our profession has something unique to offer, and the profession needs each one of these varied talents, skills, and abilities. We’ve been ‘called’ to the practice of architecture because of our desire to enrich the living experiences of those we serve, and how wonderful it is that we can do so in our own unique ways.
Together, we look to the future.
In France, as in many countries, architects swear a solemn oath upon becoming licensed. Roughly translated, this vow reads, “In respect to the public interest, which attaches great value to architectural quality, I swear to exercise my profession with conscience and integrity and to observe the rules contained in the law on architecture and the Code of Professional Duties.” How different would our profession be if we pledged – even privately – to uphold the ideals of our beloved profession for a public that “attaches great value to architectural quality?” This shift in our own professional culture is what we’re working toward … to foster a broader, societal culture that appreciates architecture and values what we do as architects.
Advocacy to ensure our profession’s relevance to the public is what the staff team at AIA Virginia dedicates itself to every day. We work to combine our sincere compassion for the individual – a true dedication to each member – with a strong collective direction for this profession in the Commonwealth. We hope that as you pay your 2017 AIA dues, you perceive this level of devoted service and support. Many thanks for your contributions to society through your work, and for renewing your membership in your professional society!
“Design can ELEVATE ordinary experiences to extraordinary levels.”
~ Russell E. Davidson, FAIA | 2016 AIA President
ELEVATE your career! You won’t want to miss Architecture Exchange East 2016 …
As I contemplated possible topics for this month’s newsletter article, I decided that concentrating on our largest gathering of architects was well worthy of the space and attention! Last year, for Architecture Exchange East 2015, our focus was on enriching the experience for our attendees. We enlivened our signature member event in a way that had everyone departing with their ‘batteries fully recharged.’ Dozens of aspects of the conference were energized, in alignment with our desire to make it more aspirational – and inspirational – for everyone.
Folks definitely noticed the CHANGE in last year’s Architecture Exchange East. 89% of attendees rated the event good or excellent, and 93% indicated that they plan to attend this year. Their favorite things included the new layout of the ballroom for general sessions, the opening and closing keynote speakers, the convention ‘app,’ and shorter, higher-quality educational seminars. Votes for the least-favorite things included lunch seating, cost and availability of parking, and low exhibitor numbers.
There were a number of excellent suggestions for improving the quality of the experience, and we’ve taken many of those to heart in planning for ArchEx 2016: better registration system, enhanced seminar descriptions, collaboration with allied professional groups, and even more ‘meet and greet’ time.
ArchEx 2016 will elevate the profession with its renewed emphasis on networking, innovative learning methods, and dynamic new materials and products. You should have already received the mega-card in the mail, and registration opened August 30. Additional promotional materials will arrive shortly that will further stimulate your interest in participating. And for those of you who are focused on obtaining credits, a total of 19 hours will be available, 14.5 of which are HSW. Schedule highlights include:
New ‘eye-opener’ educational seminars both mornings;
Thursday morning opening keynote speaker Rosa T. Sheng, AIA, an authority in the AIA on all issues related to equity, diversity, and inclusiveness. Rosa will share why equity in practice matters, and on elevating architecture’s impact;
AIA Virginia Annual Membership Meeting Thursday, November 3, 12:45 p.m., room E11a.
Meet and greet events all of Thursday, with a Welcome Coffee in the morning, the exhibit hall Connections Party late in the afternoon, and Networking parties in the evening;
Seminar tracks on business, design, building science, sustainability, and materials/products;
Tours of the Metl-Span Factory, the Branch House + Broad Street Station (now the Science Museum of Virginia), the State Capitol, and streetscapes of downtown Richmond;
Friday afternoon closing keynote speaker Mickey Jacob, FAIA, the AIA’s favorite Citizen Architect, 2013 AIA President, and 2018 Tampa Mayoral candidate. Mickey’s message will elevate your career and your engagement as a vital contributor to the built environment;
Visions for Architecture, AIA Virginia’s honors and design awards ceremony/celebration at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts on Friday evening.
I look forward to sharing an elevating experience with you at the Greater Richmond Convention Center during Architecture Exchange East 2016, November 2-4!
Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA | Executive Vice President/CEO
