Three Journeys, One Vision: Women Leading AIA Forward

AIA NJ Women in Architecture Committee Announces Panel at 2025 Women’s Leadership Summit

AIA New Jersey is proud to announce that the AIA New Jersey Women in Architecture (WIA) Committee Chair, Erin Sharp-Newton, 2024 AIA CNJ President, along with Tania Althoff, 2025 AIA CNJ President, and Elina Shchervinsky, 2023 AIA CNJ President, have been selected to participate on a panel at the American Institute of Architects National Women’s Leadership Summit (WLS), taking place November 3–5, 2025, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, Georgia.

Titled Three Journeys, One Vision: Women Leading AIA Forward, the panel brings together three consecutive women presidents of AIA Central New Jersey to share their personal and professional leadership experiences. The discussion will explore the challenges and opportunities of guiding their section, lessons learned along the way, and the ways resilience, mentorship, and commitment can strengthen the profession.

Each speaker will share honest and inspiring insights:

• Tania Althoff, AIA will discuss how mentor-ship and support shaped her leadership and how she has expanded CNJ’s programming through innovative initiatives, partnerships, and community engagement.
• Erin Sharp-Newton, M. Arch will highlight her mantra of “legacy and uplift,” focusing on creating a culture that amplifies member voices and nurtures leadership.
• Elina Shchervinsky, AIA will reflect on overcoming hesitation and obstacles to find her voice in leadership, strengthen continuity for future leaders, and create a ripple effect across the state.

As consecutive presidents, their leadership demonstrates the power of collaborative vision, diverse perspectives, and continuity in fostering community and advancing equity in architecture.

WLS 2025 promises three days of dynamic programming, featuring renowned speakers and industry experts, with sessions focused on networking, education, and inspiration—all designed to accelerate women into leadership positions in architecture, design, and allied building industries.

AIA New Jersey encourages attendees to join this engaging panel on Wednesday, November 5th, 2025 at 9:00 am, and to participate in the summit. For more information and registration, visit WLS 2025. Members of AIA NJ Women in Architecture will also be attending, and those interested can reach out to the AIA NJ WIA Chairperson (Erin), to connect during the conference.