When each person’s unique contexts, experiences, and needs are respected and valued, the candor and creative problem solving that result can lead to better design solutions, and retention in the profession grows.
Member Group
We advocate and promote women in architecture. Activities include networking, CE development, exploration of challenges women face, and actions that make a difference in retaining women in the field. People of all genders welcome.
Member Group
Join the national Community of Practice for Culture Change. Members focus on accelerating progress in achieving the desired culture of the profession - one that is authentic, equitable, and collaborative.
Continuing Education
In times of increased polarization and lack of connection across experiences and worldviews, intercultural competence is needed now more than ever. AIA Minnesota offers firm-based engagements (IDI assessments and group sessions). Email us to learn more.
In 2018, AIA Minnesota’s Women in Architecture Committee (WIA) began the FAIA Legacy Project. This project amplifies the achievements of our women fellows by documenting the stories of the Minnesota women architects recognized with the AIA’s highest membership honor through documentary shorts focused on women who have achieved Fellowship in the AIA (the FAIA designation). Premieres are shown at the AIA MN Annual Conference each year.
The Minnesota Architectural Foundation has several scholarships and grant programs that support the pursuit of equity and inclusion in the profession.
Grants
Scholarships
Scholarships
The CPCC operates from a systems thinking perspective. This article in AIA Minnesota’s print annual ENTER describes the Culture Change Initiative research and how systems thinking — specifically, leverage points analysis and complexity theory — relate to culture change.
Read the article in ENTER
Report
Greater diversity in the candidate population is beginning to make its way to the pool of licensed architects: In 2024, 1 in 5 architects identified as a person of color.
Best Practices
Based on research conducted in large part at the University of Minnesota by Renee Cheng, FAIA, the guides support individuals and firms in addressing bias in the profession.
Research
The definitive research report measuring bias in the profession of architecture. Research ed by Joan C. Williams of the Center for WorkLife Law and funded by AIA national.
