The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reposted this
2024 AIA President. HOK Architect. Cornell Trustee. Detroit Daughter. Ingenuity Chicago Board Chair.
Today, I would like to spotlight a historic photo that was taken at the United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) just a few weeks ago. Standing here with me is Cherelle Parker, who was recently elected as the 100th Mayor of Philadelphia. She also happens to be the first woman to hold that position, which means she is the first Black woman. Given that we share some common identities, I was especially interested in meeting her at USCM, celebrating her accomplishments and discussing the Chief Architect Initiative that The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has been promoting with Mayors across America. Some may wonder why race and gender are part of the discussion. Why isn’t being the 100th enough of a common bond? Well, simply put, it’s because these roles were not designed for women (and certainly not those who look like us) when #1 was elected in both scenarios. For AIA, the first woman elected as President was Susan Maxman in 1992. Susan, who I recently visited at her home in Philadelphia, ushered in a whole new set of possibilities for women in architecture. Thank you, Susan! You continue to be an inspiration. It may not seem like such a significant thing to be a first these days, but when there has been an obvious absence of a certain perspective, that newfound presence is empowering for many. What may have previously seemed out of reach for certain types of people can now be viewed as attainable with hard work and a strong support system. I salute Mayor Cherelle Parker for running and serving as a history maker. Women, men, boys, girls, and people from every walk of life in Philadelphia will see you and expand their understanding of who can be a leader. Thank you for setting that example and navigating the challenges that are inherent with being a first. Now, being a first and the 100th at the same time…that’s something special! #MoreIn24Monday #KND4AIA #100Week31
MAYORS, the leaders of our era. Mayors and architects working together can help meet the challenges of the day. Powerful women, it is about time!
Your leadership is so important to the AIA. Thank you for showing the way to a more enlightened world!
🫱💛🧡🤎❤️🖤❤️🤎🧡💛🫲 Kimberly Dowdell Cherelle Parker The American Institute of Architects (AIA) #legacy #hypewomen
Philly and Detroit - 2 cities that are constantly underestimated that are coming back stronger, better and more united than ever. Not surprised that you 2 strong leaders are from there and make an impact far beyond - love to see this, Kimberly Dowdell!
Nancy Kleppel
1mo
Making me smile, one milestone after another. Keep at it!
Sara Caples
1mo
So well expressed. Thank you for your leadership!
Melissa Acuna
1mo
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Kimberly Dowdell - You are a force! Glad you were in our great city of Philadelphia recently.
Yesss! 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏
Certified Professional Building Designer at GREEN DESIGN BUILD INC.
1moCongratulations, the significance should be all inspiring to all people, and I know it is me even though I am in the major minority group that my law does not have the opportunity to even look at a double-digit percentage of construction documents at the Dodge room supported by the AGC and enforced by the AIA, because I am a Caucasian male. But I must have hope, both of you have had for years, and we should all stand for what is right.