Dear Members,

With the year winding down, we have an opportunity to reflect on both the challenges that face our profession and country.  We are deeply mindful of the recent hurricanes and their devastating impact on communities where some of our fellow members practice. Our thoughts are with those affected, and we recognize the critical role architects play in supporting resilient, sustainable recovery efforts.

We also have an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments that our chapter has navigated together.  As we approach the Thanksgiving Holiday, I want to express heartfelt appreciation for our hardworking staff, who continue to make everything we do possible. This October, the Baltimore Architecture Foundation celebrated Doors Open Baltimore alongside other ‘Archtober’ events across town, bringing members and the public together to engage with Baltimore’s architecture in meaningful ways. In addition, AIA Baltimore held the annual Design Awards at the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company Theater, which were both inspiring and fun. I’d like to extend congratulations to all participants and winners. These events showcase the dedication and creativity within our chapter, and they would not have been possible without everyone’s contributions.

Also held in our city this past month was the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) Conference. I was inspired by the commitment to design, innovation and camaraderie that permeated every conversation. I was fortunate to volunteer and attend a couple of talks on  Thursday, reconnecting with many of you who share in this dedication. It’s moments like these that remind us of our power as a community.

Going into November, I’m thrilled to update you on our chapter’s work toward a comprehensive strategic plan. For the process we held focus groups, took the similarities we heard between those groups and then the board members participated in a six hour long planning session to discuss the priorities of the chapter using some of those topics we heard time and time again to help us decide where we want to go.

Soon, we’ll release the slate for our next board of directors. Please mark your calendars for the December annual meeting on December 5th (more details to come), where you’ll have an opportunity to meet some of the candidates before voting closes, and learn more about the strategic plan. Your participation is essential in shaping our leadership and our future.

Thank you for all you do. Let’s continue to support each other and work together toward a brighter, more equitable future.

Warm Regards,

Ryan Jordan Pfarr, AIA
2024 President, AIA Baltimore