Fall Into Action: Events, Engagement & Education

Last month, Executive Director Lauren Hill and I had the opportunity to represent our chapter at the AIA Big Sibs Conference. For those unfamiliar, Big Sibs is a smaller cohort of 20+ AIA chapters, each with over 1,000 members. It’s a valuable two-day gathering focused on sharing successes, creative experiments, and the common challenges faced by larger chapters.

One key takeaway? We’re not alone. Across the country, chapter leaders, staff, and volunteers are working tirelessly to keep member engagement front and center. The consensus was clear: events only succeed when members show up, connect, and use these opportunities to learn and grow together.

Speaking of success stories, our 2025 Golf Outing was a hole-in-one! Nearly 90 golfers took to the greens at Eagle’s Nest Golf Course this August, enjoying a day of sunshine, camaraderie, and a little friendly competition. A huge thank you to all our generous sponsors and enthusiastic participants. We can’t wait to welcome you back next year for the 38th Annual Golf Outing, once again at Eagle’s Nest.

Meanwhile, the AIA Baltimore Committee on the Environment had the privilege of hosting Carl Elefante, FAIA at the Center for Architecture and Design. Carl shared insights from his new book, Going for Zero, and offered a compelling vision for balancing sustainability and historic preservation. It was an inspiring and timely conversation that energized all who attended.

We also welcomed new faces to our community during the New Member Luncheon, where I had the pleasure of introducing new members to the chapter and sharing more about our collective mission and opportunities. These moments of connection are what keep our chapter vibrant and growing.

And now, a call to action:
The AIA Baltimore Urban Design Committee has opened its Annual Design Showcase for submissions. If you’re working on projects focused on the Baltimore region, we encourage you to submit! Eligible projects can include:

• Urban design, campus plans, redevelopment, civic improvements, planning programs, or environmental initiatives

• A strong emphasis on equitable development and community impact

• Work designed or implemented in the last five years (partially completed projects are welcome if a significant portion has been implemented or adopted)

The submission deadline is fast approaching, so don’t miss your chance to be recognized.

As we look ahead to October, we’re gearing up for one of our busiest and most exciting months yet. This includes:

• Doors Open Baltimore, now in its 12th year, is brought to you by the Baltimore Architecture Foundation (BAF)

• Our very own AIA Baltimore Awards Celebration on October 17 at the historic Engineer’s Club in downtown Baltimore

We’ll also be reaching out for volunteers—if you’re looking to get more involved, this is a perfect time to jump in!

Let’s carry the momentum from September into October and beyond. Whether you’re a new member, a long-time supporter, or somewhere in between, there’s a place for you here—and we’re better when you’re part of it.

Because at the end of the day, great architecture isn’t just about buildings—it’s about the people who come together to make them possible.

So, let’s keep showing up, keep building, and maybe next year at Big Sibs, we’ll be the success story everyone else is talking about.

Best regards,

Madhuri Subramaniam, AIA, LEED AP, NCARB

2025 President- AIA Baltimore