AIA event celebrates women in architecture and design

Event is second in a series that recognizes the imperative of building a profession that reflects our nation’s diversity

WASHINGTON – April 10, 2019 – Leaders from top architecture and design organizations celebrated women in design at an event Tuesday night co-hosted by The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

Part of a series that explores the imperative of expanding diversity in the architecture profession, the “Women in Design” event acknowledged the contributions and accomplishments of women in the design field.

“As the role and definition of design expands, women in the profession are increasingly forging their own paths and adding their value to the industry in significant ways,” said 2019 AIA First Vice President and 2020 President Jane Frederick, FAIA. “While strides have been made with regard to equity, diversity and inclusion in the profession, we still have work to do.”

Frederick was joined by a panel of women leaders, which included ASLA Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer Nancy Somerville, Hon. ASLA, Hon. AIA; National Capital Area National Association of Black Women in Construction President Nicole Allen; and University of the District of Columbia, Architecture and Urban Sustainability Department Chair Susan Schaefer Kliman, Ph.D, AIA.

“Unfortunately, the design professions are not immune to the kind of racial, ethnic, and gender inequity we see in other fields. While there are some incredible examples of women leaders in landscape architecture, women are unfortunately under-represented in top jobs and projects,” said Somerville. “The American Society of Landscape Architects is committed to bringing diversity and social equity to our field. Discussions like this one make that possible and I was proud to sit beside these incredible women leaders to keep the dialogue going.”

The “Embracing Our Differences. Changing the World.” speaker series launched in February with an event co-hosted with the National Organization of Minority Architects in celebration of Black History Month. Future events will be announced throughout 2019.

Last night’s event can be watched on AIA’s Facebook page. AIA is committed to broadening equity, diversity and inclusion to create a stronger profession. To support that mission, AIA has developed a number of programs and resources. Learn more on AIA’s website.

About the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
Founded in 1899, the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) is the professional association for landscape architects in the United States, representing more than 15,000 members. The Society’s mission is to advance landscape architecture through advocacy, communication, education, and fellowship. Sustainability has been part of ASLA’s mission since its founding and is an overarching value that informs all of the Society’s programs and operations. ASLA has been a leader in demonstrating the benefits of green infrastructure and resilient development practices through the creation of its own green roof, co-development of the SITES® Rating System, and the creation of publicly-accessible sustainable design resources.