A native of Cincinnati, Ohio, Heather graduated from the University of Cincinnati's Design, Art, Architecture and Planning program. "The intensity of design school is an experience that shapes how I work for AIA," she notes. "I understand the passion and dedication required to help translate ideas into the built environment."
As the former Director of Programs and Communications for one of the largest AIA Chapters in the nation--AIA North Carolina, she gained valuable knowledge of the Institute and its goals for the membership. She became the EVP of AIA Utah in 2011, thr first and only woman of color to do so. While in Utah, she also served, by appointment of the Governor, on the Utah State Board of History, also the only black woman to have held a seat at that table.
Heather maintains her interest in cities, urban planning, and historic preservation through her volunteer outreach and leadership appointments and teaches leadership skills and professional development to young architects through a series of mentoring lectures. Etiquette, resume and interview skills, soft skills, and network building are at the top of her list for the successful transition from internship to licensure, and she helps emerging professionals bridge the gap between theory and practice.
With a background in urban planning, transportation planning, neighborhood revitalization and cultural preservation, Heather has spent over 20 years studying urban environments and the ways we use them while encouraging architects to use their voices for impact. "I have learned how to identify and advocate for underserved or threatened populations in organizational settings; designing a course toward restored social and physical communities."
In Oregon, Heather enjoys connecting the entire state through dynamic programming, a robust volunteer network, and connection to the AEC community. "We are designing a better world, together."
Named one of 2014's "40 under 40" by Utah Design and Construction Magazine, Heather is available for speaking engagements on leadership in design.