AIA Strategic Plan
The American Institute of Architects will deliver profound change through its strategic plan, inspiring and empowering the architecture community to improve society and transform the world.
Designing a Better World: AIA's Progress Toward Its 2021-2025 Strategic Plan
Our vision is clear: architects are essential leaders in creating a built environment that is sustainable, just, and resilient for everyone. Over the last five years, the American Institute of Architects and its members have led the charge in confronting two of the world's most critical challenges: climate change and systemic inequity. Guided by our strategic plan, we are turning responsibility into measurable action with achievements that demonstrate the transformative power of design.
Climate Action: Building a Resilient Future
AIA is empowering members with the tools and advocacy to turn their responsibility to address the climate crisis into measurable action.
- Achieved a 56% reduction in predicted energy use through the 2030 Commitment
- Increased adoption of the Framework for Design Excellence across firms of all sizes
- Transformed the market for healthier materials through the Materials Pledge
- Advocated for resilient design and adaptive reuse policies at UN Climate Conferences
Equity: Building an Inclusive Profession
AIA is taking measurable steps to advance equity, dismantle barriers, and build a profession that reflects the society it serves.
- Created new pathways to leadership for underrepresented groups through the Next to Lead program
- Strengthened partnerships with all seven accredited HBCU architecture programs to invest in the future of the profession
- Fostered more inclusive workplace cultures by providing resources like the Guides for Equitable Practice
- Achieved historic representation of women and underrepresented groups in AIA leadership roles
Past plans
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Strategic Planning Committee
AIA is embarking on an inclusive, forward-looking strategic planning process to shape our priorities and focus for the years ahead. This effort is being guided by a Strategic Planning Committee—a group of volunteer leaders who bring deep insight, diverse perspectives, and a strong commitment to AIA’s future. Appointed by 2025 AIA President, Evelyn Lee, FAIA, the members of the Strategic Planning Committee are:
Korey White, AIA, Co-chair (Illinois)
Mike Waldinger, Hon. AIA, Co-chair (Colorado)
Bill Bates, FAIA (Pennsylvania)
Abigail Brown, FAIA (Washington, D.C.)
Paolo Campos, AIA (Connecticut)
Josh Flowers, FAIA (Tennessee)
Nate Hudson, AIA (Nevada)
Melvaleen McLemore, AIA, NOMA (Texas)
Rachel Minnery, FAIA (Washington)
Li Ren, AIA (Dubai)
Saakshi Terway, Assoc. AIA (Washington, D.C.)
Sarah Woynicz, AIA (Texas)
The committee serves as the strategic heart of this process. Its members have been invited to:
- Frame key questions and priorities that will define our path forward.
- Gather, reflect on, and engage with stakeholder input from across the profession and allied communities.
- Explore opportunities, challenges, and shifts in our operating environment.
- Recommend a bold, achievable direction aligned with our mission, vision, and values.
This group brings no predetermined answers—but a shared commitment to ensuring that the process is thoughtful, equitable, and impactful.
To support this effort, AIA has engaged a skilled external consultant who brings expertise in facilitation, strategy, and stakeholder engagement. While the consultant provides structure and expertise, it's the committee’s leadership and member voices that drive the direction and outcomes of the plan.
Together, this collaboration ensures that the voices of our members and partners are heard—and that our next strategic plan is built to inspire, focus, and lead.