34 WYOMING ARCHITECTURE .22 | aia-wyoming.org After a break to visit exhibitor booths in the atrium of the Capitol, a chapter business meeting included reports on the activities of the various chapter standing committees and updates on AIA Wyoming’s participation in regional and national events, as well as details of AIA’s affairs. After time to visit with fellow members and exhibitors over lunch, the afternoon sessions began with an in-person presentation by Jessica Friis documenting her extensive research and current involvement with the High Plains Arboretum in Cheyenne. The title of her talk, Connecting Science and Environmental Design, described the history and changing mission of this fascinating facility west of Cheyenne and connected the role of design and scientific research. Following a refreshment break and further opportunity to visit exhibits, a discussion provided insights around the topic of optimizing community assets from a panel of individuals with a wide range of expertise. Moderated by Senator Stephan Pappas, AIA Emeritus, the panel brought experiences and strategies from a diversity of viewpoints that centered on how community assets can be leveraged through multi-disciplinary collaboration. Specific examples of challenges and successes from panel members gave real-world relevance to the presentation. The day’s final presentation by keynote speaker Ed McMahon of the Urban Land Institute incorporated the conference theme in a thought-provoking session on asset-based economic development. Using multiple examples and data sources, McMahon’s vast experience in preservation, urban planning and economics gave relevance and contemporary insight into challenges faced by design professionals. His fast-paced presentation gave conference participants ample food for contemplation and practical application. The conference concluded on Saturday, April 9, with three on-site tours of recently completed projects. Chapter members Senator Stephan Pappas, AIA Emeritus; Jamie Winters, AIA and Lyle Murtha, AIA, guided attendees through their respective projects: Carey Junior High School Replacement Project, Judge Joseph M. Carey City Center, and the Barn Loft. We thank our participating industry partners and our conference planning team: Senator Stephan Pappas, AIA Emeritus; Jim Rose, AIA Emeritus; Ansley Mouw, Associate AIA; Ellen Martin, Associate AIA; Suzanne Norton, AIA; and Susan Menghini, Executive Director. b CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33
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