Join us for an inspiring and insightful summit dedicated to exploring how architects are powerfully shaping the business of architecture. This dynamic day will offer insights into the full arc of a practice’s life.
Through candid conversations, skill-building workshops, and shared experiences, you’ll connect with visionary leaders who are building sustainable, values-driven businesses and redefining the future of the profession.
8:00AM – 9:00AM Breakfast & Networking
9:00AM – 10:15AM Keynote “Leading by Design”
Our keynote speaker will share insights from her personal journey at the helm of an architecture practice, highlighting the creative, strategic, and human dimensions of leadership. Her talk will set the tone for the day, encouraging attendees to rethink traditional models of firm ownership and envision bold new pathways forward
Kelly Ard is a Partner and President of designLAB architects. Her work with mission-driven institutions centers primarily on arts, educational, and community-based projects, with a keen interest in place-based connections.
Kelly’s award-winning portfolio ranges from transformations of brutalist masterworks to arts, education, and cultural projects— each with a unique approach to animating human experience and enriching a sense of community. In addition to her built work, Kelly is a vocal and enthusiastic contributor to the broader professional dialogue on themes ranging from interior architecture to resiliency, mentorship, and education. Through her leadership roles at the Boston Society of Architects and American Institute of Architects, Kelly seeks to pivot the conversation toward more human-centric and socially-accountable design, while elevating design and beauty through her positions on regional and national design juries. Kelly is a graduate of the University of Florida School of Architecture, where she earned a Master of Architecture and Master of Science in Architecture Pedagogy.
10:30AM – 11:45PM Panel Discussion: “From Launch to Legacy”
An engaging panel discussion brings together firm leaders at various stages of development—from newly established to well-respected—to share their stories, lessons learned, and the unique challenges and triumphs of building and sustaining a practice over time. Explore the evolution of firm culture, business strategy, team-building, and personal growth.
Panelists:
11:45AM – 12:45PM Lunch & Networking
Enjoy networking opportunities to forge meaningful connections with fellow architects and allied , share experiences, and build a supportive community.
___________________________________________________
12:45PM – 2:00PM Panel Discussion: “Planning the Next Chapter”
How do you prepare for the next generation of leadership and the future of the practice? Whether it’s designing new roles for senior leaders or exploring acquisitions or mergers, participants will gain tools and perspectives to make strategic, values-driven decisions about their future.
Panelists:
Moderator:
Maria DeFiore, Assoc. AIA, Rings End
___________________________________________________
2:10PM – 3:30pm Skills Workshop “Tools for Leadership Growth”
This interactive session focuses on developing practical skills to lead with confidence and clarity—whether you’re managing projects, guiding teams, or growing a business. Facilitators will lead exercises in communication, career development, negotiation, financial fluency, strategic planning, business development, and equitable practice, helping participants build a toolkit they can bring back to their firms and communities.
Facilitators: Nancy Alexander, Melinda Agron AIA, Jennifer Huestis AIA
Registration opens May 9th
Ticket Pricing:
AIACT/Allied Member – $150.00
Non-Member – $300.00
Other AIA Member – $150.00
Assoc. AIA CT – $75.00
Student Ticket – Free (Limited seats are available)
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights, develop crucial skills, and connect with a powerful network of fellows shaping the business of architecture. Register today and be part of the conversation!
