Events: Storytelling Women in Architecture | Luncheon with the Phoenix Mayor

The recent months have been bustling with a variety of events. Maurita had the privilege of speaking at the Storytelling Women in Architecture event hosted by AIA+NOMA, while Andrea had the opportunity to attend a luncheon with the Mayor of Phoenix.

STORYTELLING WOMEN IN ARCHITECTURE

Maurita Harris was honored to be asked to participate as a moderator as well as a panelist in the “Storytelling” event sponsored by AIA Arizona in collaboration with NOMA Arizona. The speakers had a candid conversation, sharing stories about being a female architect and the different perspectives that it brings. While some people don’t like to be highlighted as a “woman in architecture” but rather just an “architect” Maurita personally feels that it is noteworthy to acknowledge female presence in a field that has been dominated by men for generations. They discussed everything from taking time off versus not taking time off to raise a family, then re-entering the profession, getting licensed, garnering respect, and building your network to mentor the next generation. Some stories brought laughter, while others shed light on the ongoing challenges women still face in the design and construction industry in 2024. Women’s paths intertwine naturally, leading them to a space where they can gather, enact change, and share their experiences. Through these shared stories, they empower the next generation of girls, letting them know that this profession will embrace them if they choose to enter.

Panelists: Sue Gray, Principal at BWS; Tara Brown, Principal at HDR; Nikki Hernandez, Architect at Holly Street Studio; and Maurita Harris, Senior Architect at PHX Architecture.

LUNCHEON WITH THE MAYOR OF PHOENIX

“Today, the world is looking to Phoenix as a city of the future, where possibility is found in every corner,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego noted.

On April 23^rd, the AIA Phoenix Metro Chapter sponsored a table at the 2024 Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego’s State of the City Lunch and as this year’s Board Secretary, Andrea Lucarelli was invited to attend. This was her first State of the City event and she was honored to join her fellow Board members to hear about the amazing things our City has accomplished and what we have in store.

This year’s theme was “The Future Is Phoenix.” and Mayor Gallego touched on the many important investments taking place in Phoenix and the entire State of Arizona.  She focused on efforts to create a sustainable and successful City by addressing both housing and climate issues.