Pillars Leadership Program
AIA Kansas City's Pillars Leadership Program is a training program that prepares a representative cross section of the chapter’s emerging leaders for their role in shaping the future of both the architectural profession and the greater Kansas City metropolitan area. The training program includes active participation in programs and exposure to community leaders and issues. Applications are accepted for the program once each year. Criteria for acceptance include proven career success and community involvement. The benefits of the program include: development of relationship skills, skill development, team performance, and chapter and community leadership.
Topics that will be discussed throughout the year include: politics and advocacy, academia and mentorship, business and legal issues, project delivery and partnership, communication methodologies, outreach, industry trends and economic development.
2024 - 2025 PILLARS CLASS
Caleb Bertels, AIA - Hoefer Welker
Steve Burton, AIA - BRR Architecture
Rachel Dumsky, AIA - NSPJ Architects
Andra Eglitis, AIA - SFS Architecture
Allison Kelly, Assoc. AIA - Pulse Design Group
Phillip Perkins, AIA - HNTB
Bruno Rodriguez Escobedo, Assoc. AIA - Populous
Claire Ryan, AIA - Black & Veatch
Tanvi Sanghvi, AIA - Helix Architecture + Design
Keegan Thompson, Assoc. AIA - DLR Group
Melissa Watson, Assoc. AIA - HOK
Kathryn Eckhoff - Wallace Design Collective
Travis Kingsley - 5BY5 Engineers
Kate Moeder - Hufft
Wesley Morris - Garver
Zach Russell - PMA Engineering
Pillars May 2024 Overview
In May, the Pillars Leadership Program immersed itself in the vibrant arts and culture scene of Kansas City. Our session offered a broad overview of the diverse locations, mediums, and scales that define the city’s artistic landscape. We explored how exposure, education, and mentorship nurture and grow the local arts economy.
We kicked off with an engaging panel discussion at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, featuring respected representatives from three of Kansas City’s premier art institutions: Matt Smith, Head Exhibition Designer at the Nelson-Atkins; Samantha Maloney, Exhibition Coordinator at the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art; and Eileen Weir, Chair of the Community Engagement Committee for the Parade of Hearts. Their conversations provided valuable insights into the considerations, coordination, opportunities, and challenges involved in creating exhibits and public art installations. It was fascinating to hear their different perspectives, highlighting both commonalities and unique approaches of their respective institutions.
