As 2018 comes to a close, I look back on this year as President of AIA Virginia with a great deal of satisfaction and a measured amount of collective pride in what the leadership team was ready and able to accomplish. First and foremost, I’d like to thank the dedicated AIA Virginia staff. They are committed to the organization, the profession and the membership, and they are a joy to do work with. Corey and I “cut our teeth” together as leaders of the organization, and we were in lock-step throughout the year. I’ve come to know Corey as a trusted colleague and a true leader, gifted with vision, organization, and a commitment to excellence, but more importantly, I’ve gained a new friend. AIA Virginia is in good hands!
I’d also like to thank the dedicated volunteer Board of Directors for their time, energy and leadership. Our councils have been hard at work setting the goals and aspirations of the organization, all in an effort to better the membership experience and protect and enhance the profession. Our Board brings to the table a diverse set of perspectives from across the Commonwealth, along with skill sets that range all aspects of the professional life. No matter the issue, we have board members with the knowledge and passion necessary to handle it effectively.
A number of important initiatives have been put into motion this year. 2018 saw AIAVA expand its reach and influence, holding two of Board of Director meetings at component locations outside of Richmond. In collaboration with the associated architecture schools, we held BoD meetings this year hosted by Virginia Tech in Blacksburg and by the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. Further efforts of collaboration resulted in this year’s formation of the ACE programs, bringing together the architecture, construction and engineering professions for a series of well-attended events held across the state. Look for both of these outreach efforts to continue strong into future years. And the relocation of AIA Virginia’s offices will take place in early 2019 as well. Plans are complete, renovations are set to commence, and the staff is extremely excited to occupy the highly functional and collaborative space.
Architecture Exchange East 2018 was another successful event, bringing together nearly 800 attendees from throughout Virginia and beyond. Attendance continued its upward trend and the event featured a variety of uplifting and motivational speakers, educational programs and tours, business meetings and a hall full of vendors dedicated to the design and construction industry. Opportunities to socialize with colleagues and associates are an increasingly important part of the planning, with events dedicated to all aspects of the profession. The Hippodrome Theater proved to be an excellent location for a number of parties, and I look forward to returning to ArchEx 2019.
And lastly, I’d like to welcome Rob Reis, AIA, as our incoming President for 2019. I’ve had the privilege of serving with Rob for years and I’m confident he will provide solid guidance in the coming year, leading AIA Virginia toward new goals and aspirations. Rob is an accomplished professional and talented designer and I look forward to continuing my service alongside him.
Eric Keplinger, AIA
President
AIA Virginia