AIA Virginia announces the call for applications for the 2019 class of Emerging Leaders in Architecture (ELA): An Honors Academy of AIA Virginia.
ELA is an intensive program of educational sessions structured around presentations, discussions, team exploration, analysis, consensus-building, collaboration, and case study activities undertaken over the course of a year by a small cadre of participants selected for their potential to be outstanding contributors to the profession and the community. Facilitators and mentors who are established leaders in the building, finance, non-profit, development, university, legal, consulting, and design professions and in the community at large develop and deliver the sessions, designed to provide participants with advanced knowledge and skills related to specific areas of leadership and practice.
The program consists of seven, day-long seminars, several work sessions, culminating with a presentation at Architecture Exchange East.
The application is available here>>
The application deadline is Nov. 16, 2018.
The seminars are interactive, drawing on real examples and actively involving participants. They rotate among sites in Roanoke, Charlottesville, Richmond, Alexandria and Norfolk in conjunction with the firms, schools, and the local AIA component in each area.
How to Apply
The committee seeks applicants from three categories:
- Component Nominees: Each of the five Virginia AIA local component Boards may nominate one or more individuals for admission to the program. One participant will be selected from each chapter for a total of five.
- Student Nominees: Each Virginia Architecture School (UVa, VT, Hampton, and WAAC) may nominate one or more students for admission to the program. One participant will be selected from each school for a total of four.
- Open Applications: Applicants may apply on their own or be nominated by someone else. Seven participants will be selected from among these applicants.
ELA Sessions at a Glance
Inheritance and Inspiration
Historically, architecture as a profession comes from a long-standing tradition of patronage and apprenticeship. Today, the profession of architecture has evolved into one that is forward-thinking and fast changing. It requires creativity and leadership for the commerce and culture it serves. As such, we inherit a status and obligation as architects to lead.
Serving Communities
Architects have a social responsibility to strengthen communities. This session evaluates how architects can lead by serving whether it’s in elected office or on a board or commission. Architects need a seat at the table when important civic decisions are made and must be able to speak to the value we bring to a community. Participants will have a chance to experience how the power of architects and design are shaping a community first-hand
Practicing Professionalism
This session kicks off with participants discovering their CliftonStrengths. Understanding where one excels allows him/her to be more effective in a team-oriented profession such as architecture. Fun and experiential team exercises will allow participants to learn more about their classmate’s strengths which will be informative and productive when working on the class project. The session also covers the obligations architects have to the general public in terms of ethics, law, and codes.
Communicating Effectively
Communicating effectively is vital to the success of an architect. Participants learn how to craft appropriate business and professional communications that will be beneficial in public relations, presentations, and persuasive writing and speaking. Participants will be required to do oral presentations as well as undergo a writing critique.
Working Together
Architects are required to work with various stakeholders when executing a project. These parties include public and private owners, developers, contractors, consultants, financial institutions, and allied professionals. Participants will hear from these stakeholders about they view success with architects.
Firm Foundations
Architecture is a business. Businesses have leadership, ownership, and transitions. Participants will learn about these topics in addition to small business management, financial planning, and business/project financial management standards. Participants will learn through role-playing during part of the session.
Value of Good Design
Architects can have a substantial impact in shaping a community’s identity and expression. This can be accomplished through mentorship, education, economic development, and politics. This session brings participants together with community officials to discuss how architecture is essential to healthy community development. This covers the importance of the economics, implementation, and business interests that are associated with good design. The session concludes with a community presentation of the class project.
Conclusion
Participant presentation of the class project at Architecture Exchange East followed by a closing ceremony and reception. Complimentary registration to the conference is provided for the day of the presentation.