Evelyn Lee, FAIA, inaugurated as AIA 2025 President
Lee, a multi-faceted design leader who uniquely blends her architectural background with a technology-driven focus, was inaugurated as the 101st AIA President at a ceremony December 13, 2024.
WASHINGTON – December 16, 2024 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is pleased to announce the inauguration of Evelyn M. Lee, FAIA, as its 101st president.
Lee is a multi-faceted professional who uniquely blends her architectural background with a technology-driven focus. As an architect now immersed in the technology industry, she serves as an angel investor, startup advisor, and fractional Chief Operating Officer for small and medium-sized architecture firms, as well as serving on the board of directors as an Outside Director for the firms Shepley Bulfinch and Luckett & Farley.
“The rapid pace of technological and environmental change has created challenges that can feel overwhelming,” said 2025 AIA President Evelyn Lee, FAIA, at her inauguration. “But moments of tension and uncertainty—are also opportunities. They call us to come together, collaborate, and remind ourselves that our strength as architects lies not just in what we build but also in the communities we foster. We must lead with empathy, clarity, and courage. We must show the world how architects can be agents of unity and progress.”
Despite her career transition, Lee’s passion for architecture remains unshaken, fueled by a deep admiration for the professionals in the field, their dedication to serving clients, and the indelible impact they imprint on communities. A sought-after speaker, Lee regularly shares her insights on the evolution of architecture practice, leadership and team development, the integration of technology in practice operations, and the exploration of alternative careers. Outside of her architectural pursuits, she is a founding advisor for Women Defining AI, championing a more inclusive and diverse landscape in artificial intelligence.
Lee joins 2024 President Kimberly Dowdell, AIA, NOMAC, and 2023 President Emily Grandstaff-Rice, FAIA, to mark the third consecutive year that AIA has all female leaders at the helm.
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Schwennsen was elected Chancellor by members of the College of Fellows and is the first woman to serve as both AIA President (2005-06) and Chancellor of the College of Fellows.
