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.
2023 - 2024 PILLARS CLASS
Sean Arkin, Assoc. AIA - Centric
Megan Beezley - Health Facilities Group Architecture
Yamil Camacho - Henderson Engineers
Erin Flaherty, AIA - Finegold Alexander Architects
Matthew Hollingsworth, Assoc. AIA - Hoefer Welker
Kelsey Humphrey, AIA - Multistudio
Travis Jennings - BSE Structural Engineers
James Kendall, AIA - Clark & Enersen
Dan Osburn, AIA - HOK
Chelsea Powell, AIA - Travois
Annie Ringhofer, Assoc. AIA - KEM Studio
Megan Strayer, Assoc. AIA - Clark & Enersen
Audrey Swain - HNTB
Prajakta Thipsay, Assoc. AIA - Populous
Kelly Winkel, AIA - PGAV
Drew Yarnell, AIA - HNTB
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.
