Heather Wilson
AIA Oregon EVP/CEO

Finding Our Momentum in the Post-March Madness Huddle

Dear AIA Oregon Members,

As the echoes of the buzzer fade from an exhilarating NCAA basketball season, I find myself reflecting on the lessons both on and off the court. This year's March Madness, with its upsets and triumphs, offers some surprisingly relevant insights for us here at AIA Oregon.

1. Connection: Beyond the Noise

Let's be real: the concept of 'leadership' can feel a bit… nebulous these days. The national stage, with its fluctuating tariffs and ongoing trade discussions, can leave us searching for clarity. But here, in our huddle, it’s different. It’s about seeing you, hearing you, and knowing you’re a valued member of this community.

I encourage you to stay connected. Utilize our social media platforms, engage on Circle, and explore the wealth of in-person events listed on the AIAoregon.org calendar. If you ever need to vent, recharge, or strategize, please don't hesitate to reach out. My door (and inbox) is always open.

2. Laws of the Universe (Energy & Momentum)

Imagine energy in its many forms: a swirling galaxy, the relentless flow of a river, the gust of wind, or even a basketball arcing towards the hoop. The Laws of the Universe remind us that energy is constant, transformable, and that momentum, once built, is powerful.

Think about all we’ve accomplished together through our Elevate plan, our dedicated committee structure, and our ongoing programs. All that potential, like the players on the court, is already here. Our collective energy is the ball; it’s about how we move it, how we pass it, and how we create opportunities. I encourage those of you with the energy and passion to contribute to step up and volunteer where you feel you can make the biggest impact on our shared goals.

3. Basketball & Coaching Inspiration

Visualize the dynamic highlights from this past NCAA season – the buzzer-beaters, the incredible teamwork. Or perhaps picture an effective coach delivering a passionate pep talk, a team erupting in celebratory cheers.

My own inspiration often comes from observing the world of basketball and coaching. Staying professionally connected to best practices in leadership and collaboration helps me find new ways to support AIA Oregon in achieving its mission. Coaching isn't just about winning games; it's about building a team that lifts each other up. We see this resilience, strategy, and team spirit in our AIA Oregon members all the time, whether it's showing up in force for the Oregon Leadership Summit to advocate for our profession or volunteering your time to mentor aspiring architects through Project Almost Architect.

4. The Huddle & Game Plan

Picture a whiteboard covered in strategic notes and diagrams, or a tight team huddle, voices overlapping in focused collaboration. This is our current moment.

Our game plan is to act as a team. Keep an eye out for upcoming updates on the end of the legislative session – your involvement and questions for AIA Oregon leadership are crucial. Stay in the game! Remember, our resources are vast: the dedicated AIA Oregon staff, our experienced leadership, and, most importantly, each other. Let’s focus on transforming our collective energy. Perhaps it’s seeking a new certification, prioritizing self-care, or simply leaning on a colleague for support.

5. Equal & Opposite Force (Action & Wellness)

Imagine images of community engagement – your peers participating in a city council meeting, volunteering their expertise. Now picture moments of wellness – a peaceful yoga practice, the quiet focus of reading, the restorative power of nature.

Newton's Third Law reminds us that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In our professional lives, this means meeting the inevitable stresses and challenges with an equal measure of care and resilience. Consider these choices:

Initiate Action: Get involved! Run for an office within AIA Oregon, advocate for your fellow members, lend your voice to issues that matter.
Focus on Wellness: Protect your well-being. In today's demanding world, prioritizing your health is a revolutionary act.

No matter what path you choose, keep moving. Momentum creates change.

6. Extending Gratitude

Finally, please remember to extend to yourselves the same grace and gratitude you so readily offer others. Continue to focus on the things you can control. You are doing great work, and we are incredibly thankful to have you as a vital part of the AIA Oregon community.

Sincerely,

Heather Wilson
Executive Director
AIA Oregon