The American Institute of Architects Engages Heidrick & Struggles to Lead CEO Search

WASHINGTON – March 26, 2025 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has officially launched a search for its next EVP/Chief Executive Officer. The search will be conducted by a dedicated search committee, chaired by AIA’s 2024 President, Kimberly Dowdell, AIA, and supported by the executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles.  

Following the departure of Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE, in early February 2025, AIA has been focused on ensuring a seamless leadership transition and continuity of its mission. Stephen T. Ayers, FAIA, has been serving as interim EVP/CEO while the organization undertakes this critical search. 

The search committee has engaged Heidrick & Struggles, a premier international provider of executive search and leadership advisory services, to lead the recruitment process. The search will be led by Tonya Muse, FASAE, CAE, a consultant in the firm’s Washington, D.C. office, and a member of their Social Impact and CEO & Board of Directors practices, as well as co-leader for the Association sector.  

“AIA’s next leader will be instrumental in advancing the organization’s mission and strategic priorities,” said Kimberly Dowdell, AIA, chair of the search committee. “The search committee is committed to a thorough and inclusive process, ensuring we identify a CEO who will continue to drive forward AIA’s goals of economic opportunity, inclusivity in the profession and the communities we serve, climate action, and a strong and innovative future for the profession.”  

The search committee represents a diverse group of leaders from across the organization, including past and current board members, representatives from AIA’s Strategic Council, National Associates Committee (NAC), Council of Architectural Component Executives (CACE), College of Fellows, international members, and the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS). This broad representation ensures that input from AIA members and stakeholders is integral to the process.  

The search firm will conduct outreach and gather input from AIA’s diverse community, helping to shape the CEO position description to reflect the needs and aspirations of the Institute and its members. AIA remains committed to its core mission of advancing the value of architects and supporting its members in designing a better world. The next CEO will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AIA and the architectural profession.

ABOUT AIA

Founded in 1857, AIA consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through more than 200 international, state and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing.

AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation, and world. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards.