Hello, Northern Nevada! I’d like to introduce myself as the new managing director of the organization — a newly created role designed to take AIANN to the next level. It’s been a very exciting and fast-paced year so far, where I have had the opportunity to meet so many of you and hear your thoughts and feelings about the AIA and our Northern Nevada component.
My husband, daughter and I relocated here last year to be closer to family, and we are really enjoying this entire region. The natural beauty is astounding, and we are thrilled to learn the passion for the area and city is mutual among all residents we meet. Reno has a fabulous energy, and it is heartening that so many of you care so deeply about its growth, change, design, livability and built environment.
Previously through my consulting firm, Urban Admin, I supported several large organizations as an administrative consultant, focusing on association and executive management for professional organizations, nonprofits and boards of directors. I have supported and run offices, groups and events for the past 30 years, both domestically and internationally, and I feel that my biggest asset is concept-to-reality project execution through bringing voices and ideas together to create something larger. My passion and experience have always been — and continue to be — in land use policy, local urban civic development policy and good design.
The potential for this region to grow and change is a challenge for us all, and as architects, interior designers, landscapers, contractors, developers, city decision-makers, urban planners and space-makers, it’s thrilling to see folks attend and participate in our many civic and networking events we, as a group, produce to encourage conversation about how to do things and build a community that serves all residents. Through a common vision, we can have stronger momentum to affect future change in Northern Nevada and make it an even greater place to live. Where do we want to go? How do we want to do it? Let’s talk about it.
Our goal this next year is to engage, exchange and discuss what it is we as a community want to address in our neighborhoods, housing, downtown, buildings, industrial developments, suburban areas, art and our collective places. I am looking forward to meeting more of you and hearing your thoughts and feelings about what you would like to see the AIA accomplish as a group. Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your managing director, and see you at our next event!
Gitte Russo
Managing Director
American Institute of Architects, Northern Nevada
