AIA National Leadership Summit Recap

AIA Cincinnati members Manuel Granja, AIA, Co-Chair of Urban Design Committee along with Josh Harper, AIA, Co-Chair of AIA Cincinnati Local Advocacy Working Group, attended the AIA Leadership Summit 2025, held in Washington D.C. from February 24-26. This crucial gathering brought together architects from across the nation to connect, alongside fellow AIA Ohio members. The summit was a positive experience, with many discussions on the vital opportunities and challenges facing the profession, and architects advocating together for the shared future of the profession.

The summit was truly an energizing and inspiring experience. Under the banner of leading with resilience and thriving in the profession, conference speakers and attendees explored leadership development, policy advocacy, and engaged in meaningful conversations. It was a powerful reminder of the collective strength architects possess when united with purpose.

The theme of resilience was woven throughout their discussions – resilience in how architects design for communities facing climate and social pressures, and resilience in sustaining the profession for the future. But beyond just resilience, the summit pushed attendees to consider how to thrive. Thriving involves embracing change, pushing creative boundaries, and ensuring architects maintain a crucial voice at decision-making tables.

AIA advocacy on Capitol Hill directly addressed this need to thrive and lead. Architects met with legislators and their staff to discuss several key priorities including expanding access to affordable housing solutions, protecting design freedom and excellence in federal architecture projects, strengthening community resilience initiatives, and ensuring fair compensation practices along with beneficial tax incentives for architectural services. These conversations reinforced that architects play an essential role in shaping a better future, but their active engagement and leadership are paramount.