On June 6, AIA Long Beach/South Bay had the privilege of hosting a special roundtable discussion with AIA National leaders while they were in Long Beach attending the U.S. Conference of Mayors Annual Meeting.
Joining the conversation were Illya Azaroff, FAIA, 2025 President of the American Institute of Architects, and Amal Mahrouki, Senior Director of State and Local Affairs at AIA National. They met with AIA Long Beach/South Bay board members and local design leaders to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing the profession and our communities.
The discussion centered on AIA’s key policy priorities, including housing and affordability, climate and sustainability, infrastructure and community investment, business and the profession, and the Chief Architect initiative. Participants explored the important role architects can play in addressing complex challenges through thoughtful design, civic engagement, and collaboration with public officials and community stakeholders.
The roundtable also provided an opportunity to share local perspectives and discuss how architects can help shape healthier, more resilient, and more equitable communities. Topics ranged from housing production and climate action to the evolving role of architects as trusted advisors and civic leaders.
AIA Long Beach/South Bay was especially grateful for the participation of several local firm leaders, including Alan Pullman, AIA, of Studio One Eleven/RDC, and Keith Hempel, FAIA, President and Chief Design Officer of LPA Design Studios, whose insights helped enrich the conversation.
The meeting underscored the value of connecting local, state, and national leadership and highlighted the important role chapters play in advancing advocacy efforts within their communities.
We extend our sincere thanks to Illya Azaroff, FAIA, Amal Mahrouki, and the entire AIA National State and Local Affairs team for their time, leadership, and commitment to strengthening the profession. We also thank Alan Pullman, Dalane Nash, and the Studio One Eleven team for graciously hosting the gathering, and Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson and the City of Long Beach for hosting the U.S. Conference of Mayors Annual Meeting and bringing this important dialogue to our community.