2022 Call for Applications to join the DFA Leadership Group

The application process closes at 5pm ET on Monday, November 8, 2021.

Information and Expectations

The AIA Knowledge Communities are volunteer member-led special interest groups of the AIA national organization. They help members to connect with others who share the same passions and commitment—and develop projects that advance the profession and the collective work of the AIA.

As an AIA Knowledge Community, Design for Aging's (DFA) mission is to foster design innovation and disseminate knowledge necessary to enhance the built environment and quality of life for an aging society. This includes relevant research on characteristics, planning and costs associated with innovative design for aging. In addition, DFA provides outcome data on the value of these design solutions and environments.

The DFA Leadership serves for five years, after which leaders may move into an advisory capacity. We are currently seeking statements of qualifications from individuals who are interested in serving on the Leadership Group (LG). We currently have two open positions that would begin in January 2022 and end December 2026.

Characteristics of successful candidates:

Members should have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the profession’s knowledge of the DFA. All candidates should be able to serve the KC as Chair, demonstrating the experience and leadership skills needed to establish and execute strategic initiatives on behalf of the KC and its membership.

Specific expectations:

• Participate in one-hour monthly conference call
• Champion one of the primary initiatives and programs (and any associated project conference calls)
• Attend, if possible, AIA Conference on Architecture in the spring. Usually not reimbursed. 
• Attend annual three-day AIA Knowledge Leadership Assembly, usually in August. Partially reimbursed. May be virtual in 2022.
• What is this? KLA provides an opportunity for knowledge community leaders, the Board Knowledge Committee, and AIA staff to network, share knowledge and best practices, and build coalitions. This is the most critical meeting to attend.
• Attend, if possible, the annual Environments for Aging Conference and LeadingAge Conference.

Qualifications statements

• Letter of Interest including a vision of what would you like to accomplish during your appointment
• Resume with:
• Professional accomplishments including contribution to, and attendance at KC events, subcommittee work, etc.
• Skills include curriculum vitae outlining design experience, awards, publications, speaking events, knowledge sharing; what are the particular skills that you would bring to the committee that complement the existing leadership?
• Letter of Commitment (optional) from a leader in your firm that demonstrates your firm’s commitment to supporting your involvement.

The American Institute of Architects actively promotes a diverse profession, including race, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, and sexual orientation. DFA strives to be an inclusive Knowledge Community representing diversity of thought, geographic diversity, and traditional and non-traditional practice, as well as providing opportunities for seasoned professionals, associate members and young architects.

Please submit the above information via the online form by 5pm ET on November 8, 2021.

Questions? Contact Isabella Rosse at isabellarosse@aia.org.