Women in Architecture and allied fields from across the nation gathered for a happy hour at the Kimball International Showroom for WIA24 CONNECT on the evening of June 6 during the AIA Conference held in Washington, D.C. It was truly an unforgettable event as it provided a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with old friends and colleagues while also forging new connections. We had attendees from AIA Chapters in Minnesota, Colorado, Boston, Charlotte, San Franciso, Georgia, Coastal Virginia, and New York in addition to those local with Northern Virginia, D.C., and Potomac Valley.
Sharing stories, exchanging ideas, and reminiscing about past experiences and achievements in the industry made the gathering incredibly enriching and inspiring. The event included hors d’oeuvres and an open bar as well as a raffle and time for a group photo. It reaffirmed the value of strong relationships in both personal and professional life, leaving a lasting impression that will surely endure. We hope that there will be another opportunity in the near future to get the various WIA, DEI, and other committees from chapters in other states together for conversations about each AIA Chapter’s events, gatherings, and/or initiatives.
A note of gratitude to two WIA members, Ana Jimenez, Int’l Assoc. AIA, for help with graphics and Raedun de Alba, AIA, for assistance with social media. Their extraordinary efforts added to the success of the event.
Lastly, special thanks to our WIA Community Level Sponsor: Beth Taylor and Marina Aleixo at Autodesk and to WIA Village Level Sponsors: Hannah Leonhard at Kimball International, Susy and Sam Mikhail at 4 ideal design, Susan Honiotes at Formica, and Anne-Marie Beckman and Claire Coolidge at Chesapeake Lighting. The event would not have been possible without your support. Many thanks!
– Rebecca Meyer, AIA, 2024 WIA Committee Co-Chair