December 27th 2023.
The American Institute of Architects has made history with the election of Kimberly Dowdell as its 100th president, the first Black woman to ever hold this esteemed position. Dowdell, an architect with an impressive career that spans design, education, and urban development, will begin her tenure in 2024.
This marks the second consecutive year of all-female leadership at the AIA. Dowdell expressed her honor and responsibility in taking up this mantle, adding that the opportunity aligns with her mission of using design to “nurture progress, equity, and sustainability for all.”
The election of Dowdell is an inspiration for women and people of color who aspire to leadership roles in architecture. HOK Co-CEO Susan Klumpp Williams, who was one of the first women to lead a major design firm, said that Dowdell’s appointment “sets an inspiring example and path for more women and people of color to achieve influential positions in architecture and design.”
Dowdell’s impressive portfolio covers architecture, teaching, government, and real estate development. She holds degrees from Cornell and Harvard, and was elected to Cornell’s board in 2022. As president of the AIA, Dowdell plans to promote diversity and sustainability across the built environment. Her inclusive vision for architecture is in perfect alignment with the institute’s mission of advancing the value of architects worldwide.
“This opportunity to serve my profession beautifully aligns with my overarching mission,” Dowdell said. The election of Kimberly Dowdell as the 100th president of the American Institute of Architects is a major milestone for the organization and an inspiration to aspiring leaders.
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