Call for Nominations: AIA Seattle Board of Directors
AIA Seattle strives for diversity in leadership. Your nominations are critical to our chapter’s ability to recognize and encourage design leadership across the breadth of our profession. Would you or someone you know make a great AIA Seattle Board Member? Nominate yourself or a peer today!
Why Join the AIA Seattle Board of Directors?
AIA Seattle is the strongest professional organization impacting the region where we live and work. Be part of shaping the future of architecture and design in Seattle and beyond. Directors of the AIA Seattle Board engage in:
- Community and Professional Impact: Drive change and progress by implementing AIA Seattle’s mission, vision, values, and strategic imperatives.
- Professional Growth: Develop leadership skills and expand your professional network.
- Collaboration: Engage with an aligned organization that amplifies your voice and vision in the industry.
Nomination Process
To nominate yourself or a peer, please fill out this form by February 18! Nominations received by this date will be prioritized for review by the Membership Advancement Steering Committee, which vets potential board members for service through the 2026 nomination cycle and recommends a slate of candidates for approval by the AIA Seattle Board of Directors in April. In June, AIA Seattle members vote to confirm incoming directors, with the three-year term of service beginning September 1, 2026.
New directors are assigned to a steering committee based on the organization’s need and candidates’ individual skills and expertise. There are distinct positions that serve on both the AIA Seattle and Seattle Design Festival aligned boards, including the following steering committees: Executive Committee, Finance Committee, Development Committee and Membership Development Committee.
AIA Seattle is actively seeking 4 new board members to fill the following open seats:
- Director, Member Development: Works in support of the strategic direction of the AIA Seattle Board of Directors to provide support for the development and delivery of membership benefits and perspective on the membership experience.
- Director, Public Policy: Guides the organization’s advocacy efforts, shaping policies that impact the architecture community and the built environment, ensuring alignment with our strategic goals.
- Director, Development (AIA Seattle + Seattle Design Festival): Leads fundraising and development efforts to support the missions of AIA Seattle and the Seattle Design Festival, fostering partnerships and securing resources for sustained growth.
- Emerging Professional/Student Board Position: The Member Advancement Steering Committee is also inviting applications for an emerging professional or student as a non-voting participant in the board space for one year of service. This is position aims to bring diverse perspectives into the Board leadership space.
- For more information, see the Emerging Professional Role description. Please upload a statement of interest and resume here.
All nominees will be asked to disclose any violations of the AIA Code of Ethics in the last seven years. Please review the AIA Code of Ethics here.
FAQ’s
What is the time commitment for board service?
Board service includes attending monthly board meetings (third Thursdays, 4–6pm, in-person and virtual) and serving on one steering committee (one monthly virtual meeting), along with preparation and occasional follow-up work. Members also participate in an annual full-day retreat, a half-day onboarding session in September, sponsor relationship-building (approximately 5–8 hours per year), and select AIA Seattle and Seattle Design Festival events. Overall, board members can expect a steady monthly commitment with a few additional in-person touchpoints throughout the year.
What support exists for incoming board members?
Support and accommodations are available to board members and volunteers, to recognize unique circumstances and lived experience. In addition to a comprehensive onboarding program to ensure your success, Directors have access to valuable resources and guidance from staff, as well as opportunities for mentorship from experienced board members to foster growth and collaboration.
What are the fundraising expectations for board members?
Board members play a vital role in sustaining the Festival by making an annual gift at a personally meaningful level and helping grow our community of sponsors through introductions and relationship-building. Staff provide strategy, tools, and support so every board member can participate confidently and successfully.
