On December 2, 2025, the AIANY Women in Architecture Committee hosted its final event of the year: the 17th Annual Speed Mentoring Program, at the Lutron Experience Center. This year we were honored to have 14 outstanding women leaders serve as mentors: Andrea Lamberti, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C, Principal, Andrea Lamberti Architecture; Anik Pearson, RA, LEED AP, Founder and Principal, Anik Pearson Architect; Betty Rexrode, Principal, Rexrode Chirigos Architects; Catherine Selby, AIA, LEED AP, Principal, Dattner Architects; Christina Weppner, RA, Owner & Founder, Weppner Architects; Danielle Cerone, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Director, Marvel; Ijeoma Iheanacho, NOMA, AIA, LEED AP, Associate Principal, Urbahn Architects; Jennifer Olson, AIA, LEED AP, Director, Marvel; Kaveri Singh, AIA, Principal, DLR Group; Leslie Jabs, AIA, CDT, Principal, Gensler; Mika Larrison, Design Director, Lightstone Group; Sara Jazayeri, AIA, Principal, Studio 360, President, AIA Bronx; Vivian Lee, FAIA, LEED AP, Design Director, Principal, Gensler; Wells Megalli, AIA, LEED AP, Founder & Chief Design Officer, Person Place Thing.

The event was a sold-out success, bringing together participants for an evening of lively conversation and valuable exchanges. We deeply appreciate our mentors for taking time from their busy schedules to share their advice, career guidance, support, and encouragement with our mentees. The evening featured three engaging 20-minute mentoring sessions, with question cards provided to help spark insightful discussions. This year, we welcomed a diverse mix of students, recent graduates on the cusp of their careers, and professionals at various stages of their journey. Our mentors brought a wide range of experiences and expertise, serving as role models and offering mentees the opportunity to connect with an inspiring group of accomplished women leaders.

We thank our mentors for paying it forward, and our mentees for their curiosity, enthusiasm, and thoughtful questions. Following overwhelmingly positive feedback, Speed Mentoring continues to be one of WIA’s core events, strengthening relationships and providing inspiration and encouragement to both mentors and mentees.

We are thrilled to close the 2025 year of WIA programming with Speed Mentoring, and we wish everyone the very best for a happy, healthy, and festive holiday season! See you in January at our Committee Meeting and Recognition Award, and Holiday Party!