Kimberly Dowdell, AIA
AIA First VP/2024 President-elect

As a new day begins, I awaken with sincere gratitude to all of the AIA delegates who chose my name on the ballot for 2024 President-Elect. I know it wasn’t an easy decision. Having two very well qualified and dedicated women of color in the running is a first for AIA. I am proud of the campaign that we both ran, and I know that we will continue to serve this profession in so many different ways over the horizon of our careers. While my presidency will officially commence at the end of 2023, I am the 100th representative of the Institute’s highest elective office right now. I am beyond grateful.

This is monumental, no matter my race, gender, or age. The fact that I happen to be a Black woman under 40 makes this extraordinary. Together, we have made history in the field of architecture. My selection is a win for all of us. I entered this race for AIA President with strong encouragement from people of various backgrounds who I respect and admire. This win is for them. I entered this race to be a representative to those who have historically felt under-represented. This win is for them. I entered this race to help build a better profession for future generations of architects representing the full spectrum of humanity. This win is for them. I entered this race in an effort to help build a better and more sustainable world for all of us. This win is for you.

I deeply appreciate the tremendous support that I have received from so many. Special thanks to my family and inner circle of friends, who have been my foundation during this time. Further, I could not do this without the generous support of my firm. Many thanks to HOK’s leadership for their continued support of my service to the industry. Finally, none of this would be remotely possible without God. My faith has been my anchor from the very beginning, and it will continue to propel me forward to serve the AIA with everything I have to offer.

Yes, we’ve made history. Now it’s time to go build a better future! #KND4AIA