February 8, 2023

Why is mental health an important topic for architects?
Shifting to remote work, taking on increased caretaking responsibilities, straddling an increasingly blurred line between home life and career – all these factors have led to amplified feelings of burnout in the general workforce over the last two-and-a-half years, and architects are experiencing them particularly acutely, according to a study by Monograph.

The Young Designers Networking Group, or “YoDeNG,” is the official AIANN committee geared toward helping the next generation of architects as they embark on this wonderful and rewarding career. Our goal is simple: to assist new and inspiring design professionals in fulfilling their career goals. To achieve this, YoDeNG helps members grow their professional network and provides resources to those still completing their licensure requirements.

This year marks a year of substantial change for our organization. Under the Presidency of Daniel Hart, FAIA, we welcomed Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE, as our new EVP/Chief Executive Officer; the Board of Directors committed funds and a strategy for the successful undertaking of our headquarters’ renovation at 1735 New York Ave; we witnessed our organization’s first presidential race comprised of two substantially qualified and historically underrepresented female candidates; and, with the pandemic beginning to slow, we conducted A’22, our first face-to-fa

The annual Night at the ACES was threatened by rain, but we had a great turnout. This event is coordinated annually by Lee Murray, AIA, and is much appreciated by the chapter.

There was excitement in the air this year as 12 amazing teams let their creativity shine in the AIANN 19th annual Canstruction® event. The nine student teams worked hard alongside three professional teams as they stacked their way to teetering heights using cans of chili, spinach, roast beef hash, collard greens and more. A total of 25,704 pounds (24,000+ cans) of food were within the artistic displays at Meadowood Mall in Reno and provided a creative way to help bring awareness to growing food insecurities that families face in northern Nevada.

August 15 was another amazing day at Montreux, with our sold-out golf tournament comprised of local architects, engineers, contractors, materials suppliers, and special guests.

Marie Wikoff Employer and Title: Wikoff Design Studio (WDS), Principal/OwnerAIANN member since: 2003, HMC firm membership 2003-2009, WDS member since 2013 What do you enjoy about your profession? The diversity in the interior design industry drives me and always keeps things new and exciting. I enjoy working with clients and building life-long relationships with them.

Membership in the American Institute of Architects is an opportunity to be a part of a group that represents a force for positive change. The AIA offers a way to belong to a group of like-minded professionals through associateship, integration, and camaraderie. We let our clients, community, and peers know about our commitment to the profession, design excellence, and a particular code of ethics.