Leaders from top architecture and design organizations celebrated women in design at an event last night co-hosted by The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and The American Institute of Architects (AIA).
Part of a series that explores the imperative of expanding diversity in the architecture profession, the “Women in Design” event acknowledged the contributions and accomplishments of women in the design field.
“Unfortunately, the design professions are not immune to the kind of racial, ethnic, and gender inequity we see in other fields. While there are some incredible examples of women leaders in landscape architecture, women are unfortunately under-represented in top jobs and projects,” said Nancy Somerville, Hon. ASLA, executive vice president and CEO of the American Society of Landscape Architects. “The American Society of Landscape Architects is committed to bringing diversity and social equity to our field. Discussions like this one make that possible and I was proud to sit beside these incredible women leaders to keep the dialogue going.”
“As the role and definition of design expands, women in the profession are increasingly forging their own paths and adding their value to the industry in significant ways,” said 2019 AIA First Vice President and 2020 President Jane Frederick, FAIA. “While strides have been made with regard to equity, diversity and inclusion in the profession, we still have work to do.”
Somerville and Frederick were joined by National Capital Area National Association of Black Women in Construction President Nicole Allen and University of the District of Columbia, Architecture and Urban Sustainability Department Chair Susan Schaefer Kliman, Ph.D, AIA.
The “Embracing Our Differences. Changing the World.” speaker series launched in February with an event co-hosted by AIA with the National Organization of Minority Architects in celebration of Black History Month. Future events will be announced throughout 2019.
Video Courtesy of ASLA
