Sincere gratitude to those who attended the AIA Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. this February. We commend you for having invested in your leadership skills and appreciate the leadership that you invest in your component and our organization.
Some of our local components were feted during the Summit. AIA Richmond was congratulated on its 50-year anniversary. Jeff Nelson, Assoc AIA, who serves as a Director on the AIA Richmond Board received the tribute on behalf of the component. At the same event, AIA Coastal Virginia President Joe Bovee, AIA accepted early recognition for their 50-year anniversary. 2026 marks the anniversary of AIA’s approval to form the chapter. As they were then incorporated in 1978, they plan to celebrate locally in 2028.
Several of us also took the opportunity to participate in Hill Day at the nation’s capital. We met with members of our congressional delegation and advocated for Design Freedom and accountability for federal architecture, the appropriate and beneficial classification of professional degree programs, the continuation of the 179D (much more in a companion article), and safe, affordable, and resilient housing. Special appreciation to those who engaged in the effort and exemplified the role of citizen architect.
