Pub. 1 2018 Directory

22 NORTHERN NEVADA ARCHITECTECTURE .18 | 2018 | www.aiann.org AIA Grassroots 2018 San Diego, CA A ttending Grassroots 2018 for the first time was eye-opening to the expanse of leadership, and networking possibilities offered by the AIA. Advocacy and involvement in community issues by architects was a focus of the conference. Many workshops and lectures provided tools and examples of leadership by architects successfully pushing for positive change, whether that be by joining a planning commission, donating time to educate youth in design, or just making their voices heard. As Lisa Gibbons, AIA, mayor of Campbell, CA reminded the conference, “if you aren’t at the table, you’re on the table. We’ve got to have the communication chain open.” The sessions focusing on chapter management were a revelation that there is so much to do to keep a healthy and thriving chapter. We brought home ideas and inspiration to strengthen our chapter and improve its service to members. AIA Accreditation was a hot topic for us for good reason as this year we will be renewing our three-year accreditation. Bookending the sessions, there were many excellent keynote speakers that were interesting and timely. The panel discussion of mayors was a favorite. Attendees also got to hear from candidates for national office as well as 2019 AIA President William J. Bates, FAIA. Of course, San Diego is a beautiful place, and special events were scheduled around the city for networking and fun. A pedicab ride with our AIA Nevada Executive Director from Las Vegas, Randy Lavigne, down the busy sidewalk was a highlight in Donna’s memory, as well as a beautiful dinner on the waterfront. Next year, the conference is in Washington D.C. Make it if you can. If you would like to help our chapter become more involved in local issues and policies, please contact aiann@aiann.org . b IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HELP OUR CHAPTER BECOME MORE INVOLVED IN LOCAL ISSUES AND POLICIES, PLEASE CONTACT AIANN@AIANN.ORG