Lakisha Woods, executive vice president and CEO of the American Institute of Architects, announced that she will step down effective February 2025, according to a press release by the AIA. Woods, who became the first person of color and the second woman to hold this position in AIA’s 167-year history, leaves behind a legacy of financial stability, innovation and inclusivity. Under her leadership, AIA surpassed 100,000 members for the first time in its history in 2024, reflecting her visionary strategies to grow and unify the architectural community. Woods also spearheaded transformative financial changes.
Woods transformed AIA into a digitally modernized organization. She championed automation and technological innovation, bolstering the organization’s relevance in an increasingly digital world. She also introduced the Future Focused series, a groundbreaking initiative to promote and elevate underrepresented groups in architecture.
“It has been an honor to serve as CEO of AIA working alongside such talented and dedicated professionals and members,” says Woods. “I am proud of the accomplishments we have achieved together, and I am confident that AIA will continue to evolve in the years to come. I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of diverse perspectives and experiences in shaping organizations and communities.”
