35 To watch this interview in its entirety, please scan this QR code: https://youtu.be/AklUqRxMZ34 your dues and become a member of this organization and see it as the best investment you’ve ever made –when you get that invoice, [we want you to say], ‘Deal of the century.’ And if you’re not saying that, we’ve got some work to do.” When talking about what drew Woods to the AIA, she acknowledged that it was a dream job for her – as well as an exciting opportunity to strengthen both sustainability and equity in the built environment. “I think about what AIA’s real goal is, and that is being a convener,” she said. “We need all of those [industry] groups to come together and utilize all of our skill sets – for equity, for sustainability – for our designs to truly impact society.” When it comes to the business case for sustainability and equity, Woods emphasized that there is data-supported evidence that greater diversity and equity in a company’s culture can impact the bottom line – and that sharing success stories from national components and chapters is going to be key to the organization’s messaging going forward. “For me, that’s where I am focused, and I want to make sure our team is sharing all the great stories that exist across the country,” she said. As the leader of the AIA, Woods is unique in two ways – she is not an architect, and she’s also a member of what Gamolina called a “vastly underrepresented group” in the profession. ONE LAST THING ... Did you know that you can enjoy your association news anytime, anywhere? Scan the QR code or visit: reflexion.thenewslinkgroup.org Check it out! The new online article build-outs allow you to: • Stay up to date with the latest association news • Share your favorite articles to social channels • Email articles to friends or colleagues There is still a flipping book for those of you who prefer swiping and a downloadable PDF. “How will those qualities help you help the profession thrive?” Gamolina asked. Woods says she’s asking questions that someone from a more traditional architecture background might not ask, and in the process, identifying a “bell curve” where members need help, tools, and resources. “We have to focus on the solutions that are for the greater good,” she said. “I’m always focused on, what is going to make our members successful? What is going to make them profitable?” Ultimately, she said, her success is tied to the success of AIA’s members, and that’s where she’s focused as a leader. “Getting buy-in, finding out what people need, making changes based on what they need – that’s where I am, and that’s where I stay focused,” she said.
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