At the April 2025 AIANY Women in Architecture Committee Meeting, we had the privilege of spotlighting the 2024 Common Bond Scholarship recipients: Liberty Chapman, Master of Architecture Candidate, Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation; Chana Rhodes, Bachelor of Architecture Candidate, Pratt Institute; and Catherine Moreno, Bachelor of Architecture Candidate, New York Institute of Technology. These remarkable women shared their academic journeys, creative explorations, and visions for a more inclusive, community-driven architectural future. Each recipient drew inspiration from unique sources. Liberty was particularly influenced by set design and the power of storytelling in shaping her creative vision. Catherine reflected on her volunteer work, emphasizing that “design can be a form of advocacy,” highlighting the social impact of thoughtful design. Chana shared insights into her project, noting the importance of incorporating multiple layers of living into the design. From adaptive reuse and stage design to advocacy for children’s rights, their presentations offered powerful insights and left the audience deeply inspired.

The evening also featured updates on several exciting upcoming events. We’re thrilled for the return of the WIA Dinner Roundtables on May 15—an annual favorite where members gather in small groups to connect over dinner and discuss topics related to design, leadership, advocacy, and mentorship. Later this month, on May 29, we’ll host Celebrating AAPI Design and Leadership with Mimi Hoang of nARCHITECTS. Additionally, Kim Holden joined us via Zoom to introduce an initiative advocating for the integration of birth centers into NYC’s public building portfolio—an effort aimed at addressing maternal health disparities, especially for women of color. We’re also excited to share that all volunteer spots are filled for Girls Build 2025 on May 29, where WIA members will mentor middle school students through neighborhood design activities. Thank you to all who joined us, both in person and online—we look forward to continuing to build an empowered and inclusive community together.