New Leadership at the Boston Society of Architects
BOSTON – The Boston Society of Architects (BSA) has recently unveiled the outcomes of its member elections. The newly appointed leaders are set to step into their roles during the upcoming Annual Meeting.
Executive Director Danyson Tavares expressed great enthusiasm for the diverse group of leaders stepping forward: "This year’s election has seen one of the most dynamic groups of individuals ready to lead at the BSA. Their passion enhances our community and reflects the evolving state of our profession." Tavares emphasized the unique opportunity architects and designers now have to influence their field positively, reminding everyone how crucial effective design is in serving the public good.
Among the notable election results are:
Election Results for the Board of Directors
Katherine West Faulkner, FAIA, Founding Principal at West Work, has been elected as 1st Vice President/President-Elect, with plans to assume the role of BSA President in 2027.
Kyle Barker, AIA, Principal at Primary Projects, will take on the role of Secretary for 2026.
Ioana N. Pieleanu, Creative Director/Principal at ACENTECH, is now the Affiliate Director for 2026.
Julian Phillips, a Historical Architect at the National Park Service, joins as the Associate AIA Director for 2026.
Election Results for Governance Committees
For the Ethics Committee, the following person was elected:
- Dana McKinney White, AIA – Assistant Professor of Urban Design at Harvard University and Co-Founder of the enFOLD Collective.
The Honors/Awards Committee will include:
- Rima Abousleiman, AIA – Architect at Bruner/Cott Architects.
- Matthew Akira Okazaki, Assoc. AIA – Principal at Architecture for Public Benefit.
- Lucca Townsend, AIA – Architect at Sasaki Associates, Inc.
For the Nominating Committee:
- Karl Heckmaev, RA – Architect at the City of Boston Mayor's Office of Housing.
- Magda Maaoui, PhD – Faculty at Harvard University Graduate School of Design.
The Membership Committee comprises:
- Susan Blomquist AIA, ACHA, NOMA, LEED – Principal on the Board of Directors at Payette.
- Matthew Gifford AIA, NOMA – Principal at Shepley Bulfinch.
- Agnes Tessner Risser – Designer at designLAB Architects.
Representing the AIA Massachusetts Board:
- Natasha Espada AIA, LEED, NOMA, NCARB – Founding Principal at STUDIO ENÉE.
About the Boston Society for Architecture
The Boston Society for Architecture dedicates itself to enhancing the quality of life for residents in the Boston area through innovative building practices. This commitment emphasizes sustainability and social equity, effectively bringing together a vibrant network of over 4,500 architects and associated firms. Their collaborative efforts focus on creating a more equitable and sustainable future, with active participation in community philanthropy. Being one of the oldest and largest chapters of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the BSA remains a pivotal entity in the architectural landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Boston Society of Architects?
The Boston Society of Architects (BSA) is an organization dedicated to improving architectural practices and enhancing public life through design.
What are the key roles filled in the recent elections?
Notable roles include 1st Vice President/President-Elect, Secretary, Affiliate Director, and Associate AIA Director.
How does the BSA contribute to its community?
The BSA engages in initiatives focusing on sustainability and social equity, aiming to create innovative solutions for a better future.
Who is the Executive Director of the BSA?
Danyson Tavares serves as the Executive Director of the Boston Society of Architects.
What is the mission of the BSA?
The BSA aims to connect architects and allied professionals to promote innovative design and practices that benefit the community.
