Dear Members,
As September arrives, we find ourselves at a special point — a moment when the rhythm of our daily lives shifts, signaling a return to routine and renewed purpose. The transition from the more leisurely days of summer to the structured demands of the upcoming fall season is not merely a change in time; it is an invitation to refocus, reassess, and re-engage with the work that defines us as professionals and as a community.
September in Maryland, our false fall tricks us in thinking the nice weather is right around the corner. We know that while it’s one of Maryland’s twelve seasons, the lingering warmth of summer will eventually begin to give way, reminding us that change is both inevitable and necessary. This natural cycle mirrors the work we do at AIA Baltimore. We too must look to shed old ideas and practices that no longer serve us well, allowing space for innovation and progress. The board of AIA Baltimore will be immersed in crafting our strategic plan, which will guide us through the next three years. As we embark on this process, the board has been particularly focused on advancing key priorities that are central to our mission: sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion, strengthening our membership, and amplifying our advocacy efforts. These are not just buzzwords or trends; they are the pillars upon which our profession must stand if we are to build a future that is resilient, inclusive, and just. The board will analyze these priorities with the intention of keeping relevant to the needs and desires of our membership moving forward. We hope to hear from you as we think about these themes to make sure we capture as many ideas as we can.
Sustainability, in particular, teaches us a valuable lesson as we enter this season of renewal. It reminds us that the choices we make today have lasting impacts—on our environment, our communities, and our legacy as architects. As we refocus our efforts this September, let us remember that true sustainability is not just about preserving resources, but about fostering a culture of responsibility, stewardship, and long-term thinking.
As we look ahead to October, with its slate of significant events and opportunities for professional growth, let us carry forward the momentum we build this month. We are excited to reconnect with you and look forward to your active participation in the events and initiatives that will define the rest of the year. October promises to be an especially eventful month, with our foundation – BAF putting on Doors Open Baltimore for the 11th year which corresponds with the National Organization for Minority Architects conference to be held in Baltimore this year! Design awards (both Maryland and AIA) are also being advertised. AIA Baltimore this year will host the awards at Chesapeake Shakespeare Company theater in downtown Baltimore on 10/18. Be on the look out for sign ups.
Let’s harness the momentum of this season and work together to make a meaningful impact in our community and beyond. Together, we can make this season one of meaningful change, growth, and re-engagement. We look forward to your active participation in the exciting initiatives we have planned, and we are eager to work alongside you in shaping the future of our profession.
Warm Regards,
Ryan Jordan Pfarr, AIA
2024 President, AIA Baltimore
