Edward C. Kemper Award 2026: Vivian Lee, FAIA

Lee has built a legacy on empowering and elevating women and minority architects. Her work has been instrumental in creating pathways to leadership and ensuring that diverse voices are not only heard but celebrated. As co-chair of the AIA New York Women in Architecture (WiA) Committee, she has driven transformative change, demonstrating a deep commitment to fostering a more inclusive professional environment.

A champion for equity and inclusion 

Throughout her career, Lee has addressed the systemic challenges faced by underrepresented groups in architecture. She recognized early on that representation is vital, particularly for minority and immigrant women seeking to build careers in the field. This understanding has fueled her mission to increase the visibility and influence of women in design and leadership roles.

Her leadership has extended beyond local impact, creating national bridges between AIA chapters. Lee orchestrated firm-to-firm design exchanges and curated impactful symposia, including the A’23 Equity for Women in Architecture: Coast-to-Coast Exchange. This event brought together representatives from over 25 AIA committees from across the country to share knowledge and strategies, amplifying the movement for equity on a national scale.

Under her guidance, the AIA New York WiA Committee developed programming rooted in four strategic pillars: Design & Leadership, Professional Practice, Workplace Culture, and Advocacy & Activism. This structured approach resulted in over 100 events that provided crucial support and networking opportunities for women and underrepresented professionals, earning the committee the AIA New York Vice President Citation for Professional Development in 2019.

Mentoring the next generation of architects 

A core component of Lee’s service is her profound commitment to mentorship. She understands that fostering the next generation of talent is essential for the long-term health and diversity of the profession. One of her most notable initiatives is the creation of the annual AIA NY WiA Practitioner and Student Warm-Up.

This innovative program provides one-on-one mentoring sessions, connecting female architects with female students. It offers a unique opportunity for aspiring architects to gain invaluable insights, build confidence, and form connections within the professional community. By creating this supportive framework, Lee has directly impacted the careers of countless emerging professionals, providing them with the guidance and encouragement she found lacking early in her own journey.

Her influence is felt deeply by those she has mentored. Testimonials from colleagues and emerging architects alike paint a picture of a leader who is generous with her time and wisdom. Natasha Espada, FAIA, praised Lee’s unwavering support of women and minorities, while Ming Thompson, AIA, described her as “a legend among women in architecture,” highlighting her ability to inspire and influence leaders in AIA chapters nationwide.

Aligning with AIA’s core mission 

The Edward C. Kemper Award is a testament to how deeply Lee’s work aligns with AIA’s core values. AIA is committed to advancing the profession through advocacy, education, and community, with a strong emphasis on diversity, sustainability, and mentorship. Lee’s service has advanced this mission on local, regional, and national levels, leaving an enduring legacy for future generations.

As a design principal at Gensler, she brings this perspective to her professional practice, emphasizing that design is about more than aesthetics; it is a responsibility. This responsibility includes championing diversity, promoting inclusion, and designing for a sustainable future. Her efforts in advocating for women to achieve AIA Fellowship have also been crucial, encouraging more women to seek recognition for their exceptional work and contributions to society.
A call for continued action 

Lee’s recognition with the Edward C. Kemper Award is a celebration of a career dedicated to service and a powerful reminder of the work that still needs to be done. Her journey demonstrates the immense impact one individual can have in shaping a more equitable and representative profession. Her leadership serves as an inspiration for others to get involved and advocate for change.

The path to a truly inclusive architectural profession requires collective effort. We can honor Lee’s mission by supporting initiatives that promote diversity and mentorship. Consider volunteering with local AIA chapters, participating in mentorship programs, or championing equitable practices within your workplace. By taking these steps, we can all contribute to building the inclusive, dynamic, and forward-thinking profession that Lee has worked so tirelessly to create.

Discover more about the prestigious Kemper Award and explore its past winners here.