(EDI) Task Force -- Application Deadline to apply: Wednesday, July 11

We recognize that equity, diversity and inclusion are critical to developing a talented, high-performing industry, and we are committed to creating an environment, both within AIA Colorado and the broader architecture profession, that attracts, develops and retains individuals that reflect the clients they serve and the residents of our communities.

We need the help of committed members who share in our belief that developing a profession that respects and values different backgrounds, beliefs and ideas will propel architecture into the future and position members and firms to thrive.

THE GOAL of this task force, co-chaired by Meg Schubert Allen, AIA and Rachael Johnson, AIA, is to develop and present to the AIA Colorado board of directors a recommended action plan for AIA Colorado that addresses equity, diversity and inclusion:

1. within AIA Colorado, to remove barriers that diminish organizational diversity and equity and create a more inclusive and respectful environment where diverse perspectives are represented among the staff, board of directors and members.

2. within our firms and the Colorado architecture profession, to recommend ways to overcome professional barriers to entry and to encourage and advance equity, diversity and inclusion.

Task Force Responsibilities
  • Conduct research and summarize findings around equity, diversity and inclusion based on current trends, demographics and forecasts within the architectural profession and broader workforce landscape. Sources may include, but are not limited to:
  • Demographic data from state agencies, national census data and industry demographic data
  • Reviews of the AIA Diversity in the Profession Survey as well as other AIA national and state resources on equity, diversity and inclusion
  • Review AIA Colorado existing policies on equity diversity and inclusion (employee handbook and board policies)
  • Research on current trends and industry forecasts around equity, diversity and inclusion
  • Findings from other organizations, outside the profession of architecture, who are working on equity, diversity and inclusion and opportunities for potential state-wide collaboration with other organizations.
  • Information from current AIA Colorado members and firms about their experiences with EDI (through one-on-one interactions, focus groups, surveys, etc.)
  • Draft for the AIA Colorado board a recommended statement and action plan on equity, diversity and inclusion in Colorado that aligns with the institute’s national statement. 
Report should include:
  • An executive summary of findings
  • A suggested action plan, including clearly identified next steps for the organization to promote greater diversity and inclusion 
  • Recommended ways for AIA Colorado and its member firms to stay abreast on regulations and policy development affecting this area.
  • A recommended policy and course of action for adoption on sexual harassment that covers staff and member interactions, in line with Colorado law and the institute’s policy. 
Planning Timeline (or Meetings/Time Commitment):

Call for volunteers closes: July 11, 5 p.m., Selection of volunteers announced: July 16. First meeting: July 30, report DUE to board BY NOV 9

Time commitment: One in-person meeting per month, plus phone calls as needed and additional individual research.


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