LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group

Hey everyone,

I've submitted a proposal for a panel discussion for the AIA Virginia conference: Architecture Exchange East in November (November 6 - 8) in Richmond, VA. 

The proposed topic is "Adapt or Die: Embracing LGBTQ+ Staff and Clients"  and here is the description I've submitted:

This panel will explore the needs of LGBTQ+ staff and clients, and how adapting to embrace these needs in both firm culture and practice is not just a step in meeting JEDI goals, but good architecture and good business.  It will emphasize LGBTQ+ intersectionality in architecture, stressing the importance of inclusive spaces reflecting diverse experiences. Panelists will share personal anecdotes and professional expertise, offering practical strategies for integrating LGBTQ+ perspectives into every stage of architectural projects, from conception to completion. Attendees will leave empowered with tangible steps to foster a more equitable and affirming environment within their architectural practices, ultimately enhancing both the profession and the built environment for all.

Instead of just reaching out to the same folks I've worked with in the past, I wanted to try to get some new perspectives and fresh takes and open it up to this group to see if there were anyone else in the region (or from afar who would be willing to come to Virginia) who would be interested in being on the panel?

If accepted we would be limited to 3 panelists including myself.

If you are interested, feel free to contact me directly through here and we can discuss offline.

Thanks!

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Spencer Lepler, AIA, NCARB, PMP
Adaptive Property Solutions
Herndon, VA
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Hi all,

I wanted to post an update.  My conference proposal has been accepted and will tentatively be on Wednesday, November 6.

Thanks!

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Spencer Lepler, AIA, NCARB, PMP
Adaptive Property Solutions
Herndon, VA
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Hey Spencer! 

If you are still looking for panelist I would love to be involved! As both a member of the LGBTQ Community and an office equity champion for DLR, I can speak about both my personal experience & the efforts my office has taken to implement JEDI goals and create inclusive workspaces.  

I'd love to talk about this more offline whenever you have some time! 

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Jazzmin Reid Assoc. AIA
DLR GROUP
LOS ANGELES CA
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Original Message:
Sent: 07-03-2024 02:51 PM
From: Spencer E. Lepler AIA
Subject: Potentially looking for panelists for the Architecture Exchange East Conference in VA in November

Hi all,

I wanted to post an update.  My conference proposal has been accepted and will tentatively be on Wednesday, November 6.

Thanks!

------------------------------
Spencer Lepler, AIA, NCARB, PMP
Adaptive Property Solutions
Herndon, VA
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Hi there! 

This sounds like a great idea and aligns with some of the work that I have done at in my firm (Moody Nolan) as we work to highlight and promote visibility in the office. I'd be happy to share more about this work, especially as a Gen Z rep and the importance of elevating new perspectives!

Thanks for sharing this!

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Brett Wedding Assoc. AIA
Moody Nolan, Inc.
Columbus OH
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Hey Brett,

I sent you a private message.  Not sure if you got it in your notification.

I need your email to communicate offline.

Thanks!

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Spencer Lepler, AIA, NCARB, PMP
Vice President, Architectural & Engineering Services
Adaptive Property Solutions
Herndon, VA
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Original Message:
Sent: 07-05-2024 10:10 AM
From: Brett Wedding Assoc. AIA
Subject: Potentially looking for panelists for the Architecture Exchange East Conference in VA in November

Hi there! 

This sounds like a great idea and aligns with some of the work that I have done at in my firm (Moody Nolan) as we work to highlight and promote visibility in the office. I'd be happy to share more about this work, especially as a Gen Z rep and the importance of elevating new perspectives!

Thanks for sharing this!

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Brett Wedding Assoc. AIA
Moody Nolan, Inc.
Columbus OH
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Hey All,

I wanted to post an update on this.

If you are planning on going to Architecture Exchange East (ArchEx) in Richmond, VA next week there will be two LGBTQIA+ focused sessions: Adapt or Perish: The Future of Design is a Queer Spectrum (the session I was looking for folks for earlier this year) on Wednesday 11/6 at 4 PM and Impact of Political and Social Change on LGBTQ Architects (presented by Lawrence Paschall) on Friday 11/8 at 10:45 AM.

In addition, come join the AIA Northern Virginia LGBTQIA+ Alliance for a night out at River City Roll at 7:30 PM on Wednesday 11/6! Join us for an informal decompressing over some food, drinks, and bowling. Hope to see you there!

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Spencer Lepler, AIA, NCARB, PMP
Vice President, Architectural & Engineering Services
Adaptive Property Solutions
Herndon, VA
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