President Spotlights

Final Message from 2024 AIA Coastal Virginia President

Dear Members and Friends of AIA Coastal Virginia,

As 2024 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we’ve accomplished together as a chapter and to thank you for your continued support and engagement. Our shared dedication to advancing architecture and its impact on our community has made this year truly remarkable.

This year, we proudly aligned our chapter’s efforts with our strategic goals of Coastal Resilience and Adaptation, providing Member Value, and enhancing our Public Reach and Regional Impact. Together, we:

• Elevated our visibility through programs like the Pop-Up Park at ForKids, which highlighted architects' roles in serving the community while receiving coverage on WTKR News 3.
• Explored innovative design solutions during events such as the Hard Hat Tour of Atlantic Park and the Urban Planning Tour at Summit Pointe, connecting members with forward-thinking projects.
• Strengthened our community through networking opportunities, professional development workshops, and programs designed to empower architects at every stage of their careers.
• Advanced our chapter identity by aligning and transitioning our chapter’s name to AIA Coastal Virginia better reflect our values, mission, and regional impact, ensuring it resonates with our members and community.
• Laid a foundation for the future by building strategic partnerships, advocating for architects’ roles in shaping resilient communities, and fostering mentorship and leadership within our profession.

These achievements would not have been possible without the tireless work of our board members, committees, and volunteers. A special thanks to each of you who contributed your time and expertise to make these initiatives successful.

Looking ahead to 2025, I’m excited about the opportunities before us. We’ll continue to champion Coastal Resilience, offer enhanced programming, and expand our advocacy efforts to support architects and elevate the profession. I encourage you to stay engaged, renew your membership, and explore how you can be part of shaping our chapter’s future.

On behalf of the AIA CoVA board, I wish you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous new year. Let’s continue building a better, more resilient, and more connected future together.

With gratitude and optimism,

Barbara Benesh | AIA NCIDQ WELL AP
President, AIA Coastal Virginia