In a recent email to the AIA Board EVP/CEO Chris McEntee noted the following, “As Grassroots comes to an end, I want to tell you that the level of energy, commitment and excitement among attendees was as high as I have ever seen. Despite the economic challenges our members face – or perhaps because of them – AIA leaders are ready to stand up for the profession and ensure that economic recovery empowers architects to rebuild and renew the country.”
We have an opportunity to turn our unique skills into influence and have a very real impact in moving the country forward.
As a follow up we, the leaders of each Chapter in the Northwest & Pacific Region, need to capitalize on last week’s success and build for the future with our Congressional delegations.
We believe that timely letters of appreciation to the leaders with whom we met, or the staff members where appropriate, should be sent if they haven’t already.
As a region we need to work together. It is not enough to limit our efforts to the once a year appearance at Grassroots. We need to follow through with our representatives, work with them when they are back in their districts, and maintain contact and availability as much as possible.
Thank you all for your participation and efforts last week as well as with the hard work of following up.
Pat Onishi, AIA, Senior Director
Douglas Benson, AIA, Junior Director
Northwest and Pacific Region AIA
