Renewal
by Mary-Margaret Zindren, EVP/Executive Director
In the context of architecture, the renewal architects and designers bring about through a project is about more than dealing with worn materials or changing use of space. The renewal of built spaces is a manifestation a deeply human need.
Change just happens. Renewal, by contrast, is intentional change designed to bring about specific, positive aspirations. Renewal is born of care and optimism. It’s about what is envisioned to keep a community connected and whole and vital over time. It’s about moving from feeling tired to feeling energized and alive.
Renewal is my wish for you as an individual as you begin this new year. Your work is critical to the lives and livelihoods of so many and to the future of this planet. And you are also more than your work – you are a whole person. Feeling energized and alive ideally comes about through both your professional life and the other ways you take time to nourish your mind, body, and spirit.
At AIA Minnesota, we are here to support your renewal as you chart your way through your career – through connection, learning, mentorship, leadership opportunities, and more – and to support the renewal of the profession of architecture and the built environment in ways that reflect the values and aspirations of this architecture community and the public we all serve.
AIA Minnesota as an organization also has its own need for renewal. Founded in 1892, we are considered a “mature” nonprofit, in organizational development speak. This stage of development requires periodic renewal in order to serve our mission across generations; in order to remain relevant to, supportive of, and energizing for the ever-changing membership of this Minnesota architecture community.
We are embarking on an important time of renewal for the organization. The input received from members at the AIA MN Annual Conference in November has been tremendously helpful in jump starting this effort. If you haven’t yet taken the survey that was promoted at the Conference, do so today!In February, the staff team will begin preparing to support the AIA Minnesota Board of Directors as we dive into this work in earnest.
Renewal is often in the eye of the beholder. One person’s feeling of renewal can be another’s feeling of loss. This is true buildings and neighborhoods. It’s true of associations, too.
Generational changes, societal changes, and changes within the context of how architecture is practiced must all shape what we do at AIA Minnesota and how we do it. While every aspect of the renewal to come may not please everyone, know this:
Every member’s experience matters.
We want you to feel listened to and cared for.
We want your AIA Minnesota membership to fill you with pride.
Every day, we renew our commitment to you.
We are in your corner, not just rooting for your success but doing all we can to make it real.
Happy (re)new year!