American Institute of Architects Nevada: Grassroots New

AIA Nevada leaders travel to Washington, DC each February. The purpose of our annual trip is twofold - First, to speak directly with our congressional representatives about the current legislative issues that are most important to architects and the practice of architecture; Second, to meet with the leadership from other chapters from across the country and explore ways in which we can work more closely together to become “one AIA”. The effort to unify our organization and organize our resources to benefit all members is essential to building the future of the profession. While in DC, our chapter leaders confer with others from across the country and share their knowledge and experiences as well.

The 2008 Grassroots Leadership and Legislative Conference took place February 20-23 at the Grand Hyatt in Washington, DC.

The program focused on the immense energy and wealth of knowledge within the profession through the AIA’s components, knowledge communities, and other member constituent groups and collateral organizations. This focus helps to create a shared vision. A concentrated effort is being made to invite many different special member constituencies, including the component leadership and component staff, knowledge community leaders, the AIA national Board of Directors, emerging professionals, the College of Fellows, Diversity Committee leaders, AIA national staff, and others.

The conference was designed to bring together the Institute’s premier leaders for a unique blend of networking relationships with shared information, missions and goals, and continuous learning to work across components, knowledge communities, and special member groups, collaborating and partnering with each other to move work forward. Attendees were given the opportunity to provide input on AIA initiatives, learn from their counterparts from around the country, and network with members of the AIA national staff. Through diverse programming, attendees explored topics that will meet the many interests and needs of all of the Institute’s present and future leaders.

The objectives of the conference included:
Examining the relationship of the national component strategic plan to state and local components by providing attendees with an advance exercise that will help attendees to align and create initiatives to meet their component’s short- and long-term goals

Enhancing skills and knowledge in the art of political influence through best practices sessions on the nuts and bolts of training members to advocate the AIA’s collective message

Grooming future leaders through mentoring strategies and techniques and cultivating talents and teaching skills applicable to the profession such as volunteer recruitment, inspiration, and engagement

Gaining insights into the key leadership skills and techniques that will help prepare members for a future leadership role in their component, knowledge community, or special member group

Promoting and encouraging inclusiveness through open and participatory information channels

Members are encouraged to practice year-round advocacy by contacting their local and elected officials when they return home.