As we approach the halfway mark of 2025, AIA Utah is proud to reflect on a strong and productive start to the year. With a renewed focus on engaging members, offering meaningful programs and driving advocacy efforts, the chapter has already made significant progress toward its strategic goals. These achievements underscore the commitment of our leadership, volunteers and members to advancing the profession of architecture throughout the state. Advancing Our Goals At a mid-year strategic retreat, AIA Utah outlined clear priorities: • Provide regular events and activities for members. • Expand architectural tour opportunities. • Improve member engagement. • Support issue-focused task forces for the betterment of our communities. We’re pleased to report strong strides across all of these fronts. Dynamic Events and Member Engagement January: Kicking off With Impact • The year began with the Government Affairs Committee Legislative Kick-Off, energizing members around policy issues affecting architecture in Utah. • Tours showcased exceptional local work, including visits to 2024 AIA Utah Design Award winners: the Spanish Fork Library and Fire Station 62. • Members donned hard hats for a behind-the-scenes look at the UVU Engineering Building, gaining insight into the ongoing construction process. February: Policy and Community Building • The Legislative Breakfast offered invaluable face time with state legislators and staff, reinforcing the profession’s presence and value in public policy discussions. • The Young Architects Forum (YAF) hosted a well-attended New Year’s Happy Hour, bringing over 30 emerging professionals together to build connections. March: Leadership and Learning • Our second annual AIA Utah Leadership Summit focused on the needs of small firms and residential architects, facilitating tailored insights and discussions. • Attendees explored the North Capitol Building during an educational session and a hard hat tour focused on design strategy and structural innovation. • The Southern Section met in St. George with a focus on strengthening regional ties and architect engagement. April: Celebrating and Reflecting • We concluded the legislative season with the 2025 Legislative Wrap-Up, a key event in our ongoing advocacy cycle. • The Utah College of Fellows hosted a session on the pathway to Fellowship, supporting members in advancing their careers. • A sold-out tour of the Asher Adams Hotel hosted by YAF reinforced the need for engaging architectural experiences. AIA Utah 2025 Mid‑Year Report Celebrating Achievements and Building Momentum BY WHITNEY WARD, AIA, LEED BD+C, PRESIDENT, AIA UTAH 4 REFLEXION
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