• Mental Health Awareness Month: The Architecture of Dysregulation: Addressing Design Ambiguity to Improve Neuroinclusion

    ZOOM

    AIA NJ WIA FREE WEBINAR Kick off with Mental Health Awareness Month with our Guest Speaker: Dr. Kati Peditto The Architecture of Dysregulation: Addressing Design Ambiguity to Improve Neuroinclusion WHEN: Friday, May 1, 2026, 12-1pm WHERE: Zoom SUMMARY:  Designers of the built environment often rely on intuitive design, yet cognitive and sensory processing is not universal, and design strategies may not be intuitive to all. This session explores the intersection of cognitive accessibility and mental health, moving beyond basic compliance to understand how design choices impact human stress and agency. By analyzing the relationship between design ambiguities and cumulative stress, participants will learn to identify environmental stressors that lead to dysregulation and exclusion for neurodivergent individuals. Through real-world case studies and evidence-based strategies, attendees will discover how to design for sensory wellness, predictability, and social balance to support diverse mental health needs. AIA Learning Objectives (1LU HSW pending) By the end of this session, participants will be able to: Identify how environmental design ambiguities contribute to cumulative stress and social exclusion for occupants with diverse cognitive profiles. Evaluate why seemingly intuitive design features, such as navigation and social proxemics, are not universal and can unintentionally create barriers to access. Discuss […]

  • BEYOND THE WORLD CUP – Planning and creating the places & spaces beyond the event

    This summer, the world’s attention turns to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with New Jersey hosting the region’s premier venue for one of the most celebrated sporting events on the planet. While the excitement on the pitch captures global headlines, there is an entire world of planning, design, and development that happens beyond the game itself. From stadium concourses and concession areas to hotels, training facilities, airports, restaurants, retail destinations, and mixed-use developments, architects, designers, and development teams play a critical role in shaping the full visitor experience. These spaces not only support the event—they create lasting value for communities long after the final whistle. Join us for this engaging webinar panel as industry leaders explore the planning and creation of the places and spaces that make world-class events possible. Panelists will share insights into how hospitality, retail, infrastructure, and entertainment environments are designed to serve millions of visitors while leaving a meaningful legacy for the region. This webinar is eligible for 1 LU and is part of the AIA NJ 2026 World Cup initiative.

  • Path to Fellowship: Navigating the Journey to FAIA

    Have you considered pursuing Fellowship but aren’t sure where to begin? Join AIA New Jersey the Path to Fellowship, an informative webinar designed for members who are thinking about applying for elevation to the AIA College of Fellows or want to better understand the process. Fellowship is one of the highest honors the American Institute of Architects can bestow, recognizing architects who have made significant contributions to the profession and society. This session will walk attendees through the path to FAIA, including eligibility requirements, selecting the right object and sub-object, building a compelling narrative of impact, assembling a strong portfolio, securing sponsors and references, understanding timelines, and avoiding common mistakes. The webinar will also explore the concept of the “ripple effect”—how your work has influenced the profession, your community, or society beyond day-to-day practice—and how to effectively document those accomplishments in a successful submission. Whether you are several years away from applying or actively preparing your nomination, this session will provide practical guidance, valuable resources, and encouragement from those who understand the journey. Take the first step toward one of the profession’s most distinguished honors.

  • Legacy, Service, and Commitment: 4 AIA NJ Past-Presidents Shaping the Profession

    ZOOM

     (1.5 LU ) AIA New Jersey Women in Architecture presents a conversation with four AIA NJ Past Presidents, Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, AIA, Kimberly L. Bunn, AIA, Verity L. Frizzell, FAIA, and Judith A. Donnelly, AIA, examining how women in architecture can shape the profession through leadership, service, and long-term engagement. Each has served AIA New Jersey at the highest level and contributed across committees and initiatives that support professional practice, advocacy, and organizational development. Their leadership reflects the broader mission of the American Institute of Architects to advance design excellence, support practitioners, and strengthen the role of architecture in the built environment, including its impact on public health, safety, and welfare. Panelists will share their paths into leadership, the responsibilities of guiding a statewide organization, and the value of sustained engagement over time, including how leadership decisions can shape policies, standards, and practices that affect communities and the built environment. Moderated by Erin Sharp-Newton, M. Arch, Assoc. AIA, this session will explore how we can extend our impact beyond individual projects to influence professional culture, governance, and public engagement.  The discussion will frame legacy as a multi-dimensional construct, including institutional influence, organizational stewardship, and personal commitment. Participants will gain insight […]

  • 2026 Tri-State Conference

    Hyatt Regency Princeton 102 Carnegie Center, Princeton, PA, United States

    The Tri-State Conference, hosted by AIA New Jersey, AIA New York State, and AIA Pennsylvania, is coming to Princeton, NJ in 2026! Save the Date! The 2026 Tri-State Conference, hosted by AIA New Jersey, AIA New York State, and AIA Pennsylvania, is coming to Princeton, NJ. Join architects and design professionals from across the region for three energizing days of inspiration, insight, and connection, taking place November 4–6, 2026, with Pre-Conference Intensives on November 3, at the Hyatt Regency Princeton. The Call for Proposals opens soon—start planning your session ideas and help shape the program. Stay tuned for updates on: Pre-Conference Program | Inspiring Keynotes | Innovative Sessions | Expo Hall