The members of AIA in Oregon began a process focused on improved member services through all parts of the state in 2013. This led to the Report on the Formation of a Single Oregon State Chapter Transition plan in early 2017, and ultimately the realignment to a single chapter – AIA Oregon beginning January 1, 2019. Throughout the process, AIA leadership, through multiple strategic planning retreats developed a series of four strategic initiatives that guide the Board.
The AIA Oregon Board and Leadership Team met in Portland on October 18, 2019 and identified the specific plan for progressing the four strategic initiatives:
- Strategic Initiative 1 – Elevate the Member Experience 
 The objective of this initiative is to create a culture centered around the member and member-service.
 Goal 1: Increase state-wide group educational programs
 Goal 2: Increase volunteerism
 Goal 3: Actively promote members and member firms through the website
 Group Leader: Colin Dean, AIA – AIA Eugene
 Board Liaison: Jim Satzinger, AIA – AIA Bend
- Strategic Initiative 2 – Enhance Professional Development 
 The objective of this initiative is to help our members stay relevant and adapt through communication and program development.
 Goal 1: Develop coordinated state-wide education programs
 Goal 2: Improve operation of committee structure to support state-wide relationships
 Group Leader: Chris Moore, AIA – AIA Bend
 Backup Leader: Octavio Gutierrez, AIA – AIA Portland
 Board Liaison: Andy Owen, AIA - AIA Southern Oregon
- Strategic Initiative 3 – Improve Our Communities 
 The objective of this initiative is to make a difference in our communities through design, community outreach, and the collective power of architects working together.
 Goal 1: Communicate advocacy successes and endeavors regularly
 Goal 2: Identify issue-based community enhancement activities
 Group Leader: Dana Ing Crawford, AIA – AIA Southern Oregon
 Backup Leaders: Sara Bergby, AIA – AIA Bend
 Kim Olson, AIA – AIA Portland
 Board Liaison: John Flynn, AIA – AIA Portland
- Strategic Initiative 4 – Adapt to the Changing Profession 
 The objective of this initiative is to provide a forum for ideas and sharing to help our members prepare for a better future.
 Goal 1: Develop monthly issue-based discussion series
 Goal 2: Develop resource blog
 Group Leader: Joseph Sis, Assoc. AIA – AIA Southern Oregon
 Backup Leader: Rex Prater, AIA – AIA Eugene
 Board Liaison: Daniel Roth, Assoc. AIA – AIA Salem
Each group created a series of tasks to implement in the next 90 days to move the goals forward.
We intend to review progress during our quarterly board meetings and provide an update to membership on a regular basis. This endeavor is redefining how AIA Oregon communicates, engages, and implements what we do. We want your help. This is your chance to influence the improvements that you seek. If you are interested in engaging in the conversation and participating, please contact the team leader of the strategic initiative group.
