Dowdell is the first Black woman to be inaugurated as AIA President and the first millennial to hold the position.
WASHINGTON – December 18, 2023 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is pleased to announce the inauguration of Kimberly Dowdell, AIA, as its 100th president.
"Being elected as the 100th president of AIA is both an honor and responsibility that I embrace wholeheartedly. My journey in architecture, from my roots in Detroit, to this influential role, has deepened my conviction that design has the power to transform communities and elevate the human experience, " said 2024 AIA President Kimberly Dowdell, AIA.
Dowdell's distinguished career spans architecture, government, teaching, and real estate development. She brings to the position an impressive portfolio of leadership roles, dedicated to promoting diversity and sustainability in architecture and urban development, including her tenure as national president of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) 2019-2020.
Dowdell holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University. Currently a principal at HOK's Chicago studio, a leading global design firm, Dowdell has been a LEED-accredited professional since 2007 and co-founded the SEED Network in 2005. She was elected to the Cornell University Board of Trustees in 2022.
"This opportunity to serve my profession beautifully aligns with my overarching mission to improve people's lives through design, fostering a shared vision of a future built environment that nurtures progress, equity, and sustainability for all," Dowdell added.
Dowdell joins AIA CEO & EVP Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE and AIA 2024 President-elect Evelyn Lee, FAIA, NOMA to mark the second consecutive year that AIA has all female leaders at the helm.
Watch Dowdell's inauguration here or learn more about Dowdell on the AIA website.
ABOUT AIA
Founded in 1857, AIA consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through more than 200 international, state and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing.
AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation, and world. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards.