LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group

Hey everyone,

I've submitted a proposal for a panel discussion for the AIA Virginia conference: Architecture Exchange East in November (November 6 - 8) in Richmond, VA. 

The proposed topic is "Adapt or Die: Embracing LGBTQ+ Staff and Clients"  and here is the description I've submitted:

This panel will explore the needs of LGBTQ+ staff and clients, and how adapting to embrace these needs in both firm culture and practice is not just a step in meeting JEDI goals, but good architecture and good business.  It will emphasize LGBTQ+ intersectionality in architecture, stressing the importance of inclusive spaces reflecting diverse experiences. Panelists will share personal anecdotes and professional expertise, offering practical strategies for integrating LGBTQ+ perspectives into every stage of architectural projects, from conception to completion. Attendees will leave empowered with tangible steps to foster a more equitable and affirming environment within their architectural practices, ultimately enhancing both the profession and the built environment for all.

Instead of just reaching out to the same folks I've worked with in the past, I wanted to try to get some new perspectives and fresh takes and open it up to this group to see if there were anyone else in the region (or from afar who would be willing to come to Virginia) who would be interested in being on the panel?

If accepted we would be limited to 3 panelists including myself.

If you are interested, feel free to contact me directly through here and we can discuss offline.

Thanks!

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Spencer Lepler, AIA, NCARB, PMP
Adaptive Property Solutions
Herndon, VA
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Hi all,

I wanted to post an update.  My conference proposal has been accepted and will tentatively be on Wednesday, November 6.

Thanks!

------------------------------
Spencer Lepler, AIA, NCARB, PMP
Adaptive Property Solutions
Herndon, VA

Original Message:
Sent: 05-08-2024 11:39 AM
From: Spencer E. Lepler AIA
Subject: Potentially looking for panelists for the Architecture Exchange East Conference in VA in November

Hey everyone,

I've submitted a proposal for a panel discussion for the AIA Virginia conference: Architecture Exchange East in November (November 6 - 8) in Richmond, VA. 

The proposed topic is "Adapt or Die: Embracing LGBTQ+ Staff and Clients"  and here is the description I've submitted:

This panel will explore the needs of LGBTQ+ staff and clients, and how adapting to embrace these needs in both firm culture and practice is not just a step in meeting JEDI goals, but good architecture and good business.  It will emphasize LGBTQ+ intersectionality in architecture, stressing the importance of inclusive spaces reflecting diverse experiences. Panelists will share personal anecdotes and professional expertise, offering practical strategies for integrating LGBTQ+ perspectives into every stage of architectural projects, from conception to completion. Attendees will leave empowered with tangible steps to foster a more equitable and affirming environment within their architectural practices, ultimately enhancing both the profession and the built environment for all.

Instead of just reaching out to the same folks I've worked with in the past, I wanted to try to get some new perspectives and fresh takes and open it up to this group to see if there were anyone else in the region (or from afar who would be willing to come to Virginia) who would be interested in being on the panel?

If accepted we would be limited to 3 panelists including myself.

If you are interested, feel free to contact me directly through here and we can discuss offline.

Thanks!

------------------------------
Spencer Lepler, AIA, NCARB, PMP
Adaptive Property Solutions
Herndon, VA
------------------------------

Hey everyone,

I've submitted a proposal for a panel discussion for the AIA Virginia conference: Architecture Exchange East in November (November 6 - 8) in Richmond, VA. 

The proposed topic is "Adapt or Die: Embracing LGBTQ+ Staff and Clients"  and here is the description I've submitted:

This panel will explore the needs of LGBTQ+ staff and clients, and how adapting to embrace these needs in both firm culture and practice is not just a step in meeting JEDI goals, but good architecture and good business.  It will emphasize LGBTQ+ intersectionality in architecture, stressing the importance of inclusive spaces reflecting diverse experiences. Panelists will share personal anecdotes and professional expertise, offering practical strategies for integrating LGBTQ+ perspectives into every stage of architectural projects, from conception to completion. Attendees will leave empowered with tangible steps to foster a more equitable and affirming environment within their architectural practices, ultimately enhancing both the profession and the built environment for all.

Instead of just reaching out to the same folks I've worked with in the past, I wanted to try to get some new perspectives and fresh takes and open it up to this group to see if there were anyone else in the region (or from afar who would be willing to come to Virginia) who would be interested in being on the panel?

If accepted we would be limited to 3 panelists including myself.

If you are interested, feel free to contact me directly through here and we can discuss offline.

Thanks!

Hi there! 

This sounds like a great idea and aligns with some of the work that I have done at in my firm (Moody Nolan) as we work to highlight and promote visibility in the office. I'd be happy to share more about this work, especially as a Gen Z rep and the importance of elevating new perspectives!

Thanks for sharing this!

Hey everyone,

I've submitted a proposal for a panel discussion for the AIA Virginia conference: Architecture Exchange East in November (November 6 - 8) in Richmond, VA. 

The proposed topic is "Adapt or Die: Embracing LGBTQ+ Staff and Clients"  and here is the description I've submitted:

This panel will explore the needs of LGBTQ+ staff and clients, and how adapting to embrace these needs in both firm culture and practice is not just a step in meeting JEDI goals, but good architecture and good business.  It will emphasize LGBTQ+ intersectionality in architecture, stressing the importance of inclusive spaces reflecting diverse experiences. Panelists will share personal anecdotes and professional expertise, offering practical strategies for integrating LGBTQ+ perspectives into every stage of architectural projects, from conception to completion. Attendees will leave empowered with tangible steps to foster a more equitable and affirming environment within their architectural practices, ultimately enhancing both the profession and the built environment for all.

Instead of just reaching out to the same folks I've worked with in the past, I wanted to try to get some new perspectives and fresh takes and open it up to this group to see if there were anyone else in the region (or from afar who would be willing to come to Virginia) who would be interested in being on the panel?

If accepted we would be limited to 3 panelists including myself.

If you are interested, feel free to contact me directly through here and we can discuss offline.

Thanks!