Kaley Fought, AIA
AIA Oregon President
Reflecting on the Year and Embracing the Future: A Message from AIA Oregon President Kaley Fought
Dear Valued AIA Oregon Members,
As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary journey we've shared as a chapter. It's been an honor to serve as your President, and I'm incredibly proud of the collective achievements we've made under the guiding principles of advocacy, education, and professional development.
Together, we've championed the voices of architects across Oregon, amplifying our role in shaping a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient built environment. We've advocated for legislation that promotes sustainable design practices, championed affordable housing initiatives, and continue to engage in meaningful conversations about the future of our cities and towns through our committees and volunteer efforts at the section level.
I’m very proud of our members and the transitions we’ve had to make going into and coming out of pandemic. It has meant a great deal to me to see members and sponsors in person at our events again, supporting our digital offerings while also coming back out to key networking and social events. I have been happy to reconnect in meaningful and inspiring ways and look forward to more in 2024.
Our board and committee leaders, section leaders and staff have all been dedicated to finding our way as we transition from a physical central office to a new solution that will broaden our ability to serve members across the state. I’m excited for what comes next as we finalize the recommendations and create a new statewide solution for member service.
Education has been at the heart of our efforts, fostering a community of learning and growth among our members. We've expanded our educational offerings, providing architects with the latest advancements in design technology, sustainable practices, and leadership skills. Through workshops, seminars, and conferences, we've facilitated the exchange of ideas and fostered a culture of continuous learning.
Professional development has been another cornerstone of our work, empowering our members to reach their full potential. We've provided mentorship opportunities, facilitated networking events, supported the pathway to Fellowship, and celebrated the achievements of our future architects with the Chris White Memorial Scholarship. By supporting our members’ professional growth, I know we've strengthened the foundation of our profession in Oregon.
As we look to the future, I'm filled with optimism for the continued growth and impact of AIA Oregon. We stand on a solid foundation, built upon the dedication and passion of our members. Together, we'll continue to shape the built environment, advocating for innovative designs, sustainable practices, and equitable communities.
In closing, I express my deepest gratitude to each of you for your support and contributions during my term. It's been a privilege to serve alongside such a talented and committed group of architects, and I hope to see many of you that I’ve met these past couple of years take the opportunity to lead this organization as well. We all have something to contribute, and you’ll be supported by colleagues and friends during your tenure. It will go by faster than you think and you’ll learn more than you thought you could!
Education and advocacy will be as critical as ever this next year, and we will continue to foster an inclusive and progressive path forward, striving for equitable environments, carbon neutrality, and a voice at the table in policy development. In my role as Immediate Past President next year, I hope to encourage you all to support and contribute to our new Diversity in Architecture Scholarship, which will launch formally in 2024. I’m excited to see the next generation of designers step into meaningful roles and continue to elevate the influence of architects. The last two years have gone quite quickly, but please be assured that I remain committed to the legacy of success we’ve built in AIA Oregon. I am looking forward to the leadership of the next chapter President, John Flynn, AIA, and I hope you will help me in celebrating the passing of the torch.
With appreciation,
Kaley Fought, AIA President, AIA Oregon