The Impact of a Grassroots Movement: AIA’s Women’s Leadership Summit

{"version":"0.3.0","atoms":[],"cards":[],"markups":[["a",["href","https:\/\/architectsfoundation.org\/our-programs\/architecture-scholarships\/the-payette-sho-ping-chin-memorial-academic-scholarship\/","target","_blank"]],["a",["href","https:\/\/architectsfoundation.org\/our-programs\/architecture-scholarships\/sho-ping-chin-wls-grant\/","target","_blank"]],["a",["href","https:\/\/events.aia.org\/s\/lt-event?id=a1Y8Z00000872ZSUAY#\/Sponsors","target","_blank"]],["strong"],["a",["href","mailto:aiasales@aia.org?subject=","target","_blank"]],["a",["href","https:\/\/forms.office.com\/pages\/responsepage.aspx?id=H2oQ77VNEk6G2nHagLMWEPM-gjRMmiVBidXXID3-1WxUODJCVEU0SzhJSjFaRzI4RTZFRFhGV1FFViQlQCN0PWcu","target","_blank"]]],"sections":[[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"In the world of architecture, the concept of \u0022we lift as we rise\u0022 holds immense power. It is a notion that reminds us of the strength in collective support and how fostering a culture of mentorship and sponsorship can shape the future for generations to come."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"At the heart of this movement lies The American Institute of Architect\u0027s Women\u0027s Leadership Summit 2023 (WLS 2023), a labor of love, powered by firms committed to giving back, sponsoring, and sending women architects and designers on a transformative journey."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that of 208,000 U.S. employees categorized as, \u201cArchitects, except naval,\u201d 25% were women. While the numbers may be grim, the summit represents more than just a networking event or a professional gathering; it symbolizes a beacon of hope, illuminating a path towards a more equitable and diverse architectural landscape."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"As we gather for WLS 2023, it is essential to reflect on the tireless efforts of firms like Payette, RALLYMADE, and CannonDesign, who have shown unwavering dedication to fostering leadership opportunities and empowerment for women in the built environment and beyond."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"Firm contributions to WLS 2023 are inspiringly broad, taking many forms. In honor of Sho-Ping Chin, FAIA, one of the founding leaders of the summit, Payette, a Boston-based firm where Sho-Ping was a principal, is underwriting an exhibit in her honor and hosting a firm open house at WLS 2023."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"The exhibit will memorialize Sho-Ping for her legacy of supporting women\u2019s leadership in architecture, while also honoring the "],[0,[0],1,"Memorial Academic Scholarship"],[0,[],0," and "],[0,[1],1,"WLS Travel Grant"],[0,[],0,", both established in Sho-Ping\u2019s name. Tragically, Sho-Ping succumbed to cancer in 2015, but her legacy lives on through the many grantees and scholarship recipients. "]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"Jennifer Wright, the visionary founder of RALLYMADE, touts the importance of expanding the tent for businesses of all sizes and types. As a WLS 2023 Advisor, she brings to the table the perspective of a small firm owner, focusing on making the summit more accessible to owners of small firms, which make up about 75% of all AIA firms."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"Wright emphasizes, \u0022One of the main goals of the National SFx is to find ways to leverage that size for collaboration and influence. The impact that I hope to have is to promote and highlight valuable subject matter and resources at WLS 2023 that will help small firm leaders thrive and promote opportunity to a sector in our profession that often feels isolated and underrepresented.\u201d"]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"This year\u2019s programming features deep dive breakout sessions and intimate workshops that will provide attendees with tactical skills to tackle pressing business, workplace, and career management challenges at all scales. "]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"CannonDesign\u0027s Maria Kook shares a similar sentiment, recognizing the impact of investing in diverse leadership. For her, attending WLS 2023 is about more than just the firm; it is about amplifying the ripple effect of empowerment that goes beyond architecture and extends to allied industries. It is a commitment to create a sustainable movement that will leave an indelible mark on an interconnected professional ecosystem."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"As a testament to this growth, AIA has organized a panel discussion with leaders from across the building industry, including, Angela Brooks, FAICP, president of American Planning Association; Angie Lee, AIA, FIIDA president of International Interior Design Association; Christine Oates, CCM, Chair of the Construction Management Association of America; Emily Grandstaff-Rice, FAIA, 2023 president of The American Institute of Architects; and Robin Greenleaf, FACEC, chair emeritus of American Council of Engineering Companies."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"WLS 2023 stands as a testament to the power of unity, showcasing how firms\u0027 collective efforts and dedication allow us to create meaningful change. It is the embodiment of \u0022we lift as we rise,\u0022 exemplifying how supporting and uplifting one another is the key to making a lasting impact."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"By giving back and sponsoring events like WLS 2023, these firms are not only investing in their own growth but also in the growth of an entire community. Attendees will be able to hear the origin story of WLS\u2019 grassroots movement from four of its founders at the breakout session, \u201cBe the Difference: The Origins of WLS, the Movement,\u201d and how the programs\u2019 impact is continuing to strengthen. "]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"Within WLS, novel benefits to the next generation stemming from firm contributions are plentiful. This year marks the first time WLS will host a student delegation from local NAAB-accredited universities to participate in the summit, while introducing a new associate member attendance rate. Firm support directly enables AIA to remove barriers to access, creating a more inclusive WLS experience for all."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,"At the core of WLS 2023 are the stories of the women architects and designers attending, each representing a unique journey and perspective. Their passion for architecture, coupled with these firms\u0027 support, fuels the sustainability of this movement. It fosters a network of empowered professionals who will carry the torch forward, inspiring change and igniting progress not only within the architectural realm but beyond."]]],[1,"p",[[0,[2,3],2,"Thank you to our growing list of WLS 2023 sponsors \u003E"]]],[1,"p",[[0,[],0,""],[0,[],0,"Interested in being a sponsor for WLS2023? Email "],[0,[4,3],2,"aiasales@aia.org. "]]],[1,"p",[[0,[3,5],2,"Interested in sending staff? Check out our large group discount for firms. Sale ends August 18. "]]]]}