Calendar

This year, voting takes place by email.

On November 2, all eligible members will receive an automatic email from Election Runner containing your voter ID/key, and a direct link to the election ballot. Please note that your voter link is unique to you and should not be shared with others. If you have any issues with your ballot please email Kim Bender at kbender@aiadc.com.

Ballots close at 11:59pm on December 2 and results will be shared on December 7. 

The AIA|DC Board of Directors helps shape the chapter's direction, strengthen the architecture community in the District, and represent the interests of AIA|DC's membership at the local and national level. Board members commit a great deal of time and effort into their roles and work to uphold the fiduciary and ethical responsibilities of chapter leadership.

The following board positions are open for 2027:

OFFICERS

• President-Elect/VP | 1 year term
• Treasurer | 1 year term
• Secretary | 1 year term

DIRECTORS

• Director-at-Large | 2 year terms | 3 open seats
• Young Architect Director | 1 year term | Architect licensed up to ten years from initial licensure
• Associate Director | 1 year term | Associate AIA member

Meet your 2027 AIA|DC Board Candidates:

President-Elect/VP

Eleanor Choi

Job: Principal / Project Manager, SmithGroup

Candidate Statement: I am grateful for the opportunity to seek the role of AIA|DC President-Elect / Vice President after serving the chapter as Director-at-Large, Secretary, and Treasurer. Each role has deepened my understanding of the chapter and reinforced my belief that AIA|DC is strongest when it connects people across career stages, firms, disciplines, communities, and organizations. My mission is to create more meaningful connections among members and related design and construction professionals while expanding partnerships with organizations that share our goals. I have helped advance this work through AIA|DC and WAF Roadshows, collaborations with SEA-MW, support for USGBC initiatives, and the relaunch of the AIA|DC Historic Resources Committee. These efforts reflect my commitment to broadening participation, sharing resources, and creating opportunities for members to learn from one another. It would be an honor to serve at such a pivotal moment in the chapterʼs history as AIA|DC transitions to a new physical home and considers how that change can strengthen its identity, reach, and service to members. This is also a critical moment in our nationʼs dialogue about historic preservation: what we preserve, whose histories are represented, and how existing places can adapt to meet current and future needs. I would bring continuity, collaborative leadership, financial stewardship, and a people-first perspective to this role. I hope to help AIA|DC deepen its partnerships, support its committees and members, and continue building an inclusive, connected, and resilient architectural community.

Treasurer

Tom Lenar

Job: Director of Design Services, Clark Construction Group

Candidate Statement: Having served on the AIA|DC Board of Directors for four years, and currently on the Executive Committee as Secretary, I am seeking to continue my service to our members as Treasurer to continue guiding our organization through a period of transition which will result in providing more opportunities for growth and connection to the professionals in our city. Throughout my career, I have operated at the intersection of design leadership, project delivery, and fiscal oversight. Professionally, I am responsible for overseeing a team of people who support design and construction teams through a lens of collaboration that is focused on how to ensure people grow both their technical expertise and ability to help diverse teams make good decisions. With the people management comes a healthy dose of financial management for this business unit and has given me a clear perspective on budgeting, capital allocation, and risk management. As your Treasurer, I will ensure AIA|DC maintains the financial discipline, transparency, and strategic resource deployment required to keep our chapter resilient and forward-looking. Equally important to financial stewardship is our mission. Beyond the important work that is expected from your Treasurer, my passion is to help architects become better architects. In my current role with Clark Construction, my work occurs at the intersection of design and construction where I am both a partner offering a construction perspective to design teams and one of the primary end-users of construction documents. This position provides me with a unique insight into how the evolving demands of clients, builders, and emerging technologies shape practice today. As Treasurer, I will work to ensure our finances directly serve our members: funding educational programming, creating opportunities for collaboration and networking, and helping professionals build upon their knowledge to lead projects with greater clarity and confidence. I welcome the opportunity to leverage my financial background, governance experience, and dedication to the profession to strengthen AIA|DC’s foundation and elevate our architectural communities.

Secretary

Mika Naraysingh

Job: Project Architect, CannonDesign

Candidate Statement: Mika Naraynsingh is a Project Architect at CannonDesign with over 11 years of multi-disciplinary experience, determined to build an equitable profession. Her long-standing leadership efforts throughout the AIA|DC Chapter includes Advocacy Chair for the Emerging Architects Committee, Chair of the Equity Committee and reviving the Women in Architecture Committee. She currently serves on the AIA|DC Board of Directors, working directly with Chapter committees to aid membership activation, broaden audiences and increase visibility. Mika spearheads programs that support women and minorities, and plans to draw on her experience building long-term partnerships to broaden AIA|DCʼs reach and impact. In recognition of her advocacy, she has received the 2022 UNBUILT Washington Honor Award, 2023 Sho Ping Chin Women's Leadership Summit Grant, 2023 AIA|DC Emerging Architect Award and 2024 DCCEAS Young Architect Award.

At-Large Director

Joshua Cato

Job: Design Coordinator, Prince William County Schools

Candidate Statement: I am seeking the AIA|DC Director-at-Large position to strengthen connections across Washington’s architecture community and help translate member priorities into chapter action. My experience spans public-sector construction, urban planning, architectural education, and nonprofit leadership, giving me a broad perspective on how our profession serves both its members and the public. As a Coordinator of Construction with Prince William County Public Schools, I help connect design decisions with educational needs, project delivery, and long-term stewardship. Previously, at The Cadmus Group, I supported federal initiatives focused on reconnecting communities and infrastructure resilience. Teaching architecture at Howard University further strengthened my commitment to mentorship, professional education, and preparing future practitioners. My leadership experience includes serving on the DCNOMA Executive Board as Historian, chairing its 55th Anniversary Legacy Gala Committee, and serving as NOMA’s National Student Leadership Chair. My previous roles as NOMA’s National Student Representative and liaison to AIAS taught me to listen across constituencies, coordinate volunteers, and build relationships around shared goals. As Director-at-Large, I would prioritize member engagement, collaborative programming, and accessible pathways into chapter service. I would support stronger connections among AIA|DC, DCNOMA, local architecture programs, and public-sector partners, creating opportunities to exchange knowledge across disciplines and career stages. I would also contribute my experience in sponsorship coordination and committee leadership to support sustainable, achievable initiatives. My graduate education in architecture and resilient urban design, alongside ongoing doctoral study at Morgan State University, informs my commitment to equitable, community-centered practice. I believe effective leadership requires curiosity, accountability, and consistent follow-through. I would bring these values to board service, working collaboratively to strengthen the chapter’s continuity, expand participation, and advance architecture’s public value. My goal is to help AIA|DC remain a welcoming, responsive professional community where members can contribute their expertise and see their involvement make a difference across the District.

Liz Kovacevic

Job: Architect, Beyer Blinder Belle

Candidate Statement: I believe in the ability for architecture and planning to be transformative; however, I also think that many appreciable changes need to be made through policy. With this in mind, I joined the AIA|DC Advocacy Committee where I have been co-chair for the past three years. In my role, I pushed for the committee to be more involved with local government agencies, including giving public testimony on zoning cases and council legislation. This passion for advocacy also led me to run and serve as an elected official, representing 2,000 of my neighbors as an ANC Commissioner. I use my knowledge of architecture and development to help educate the community and push for programs and policy that will create a better city.

As a board member for AIA|DC I will continue my advocacy work, engaging with members to learn the issues that are important to them and ensuring that we have a seat at the table with District agencies.

Derek Robert

Job: Branch Chief of Design: Off-Mall and National Zoo, The Smithsonian Institution

Candidate Statement: I have a demonstrated history of actively serving AIA in various capacities and at various levels, including AIA local, state, national, and on various board and committees. This history includes supporting existing operations while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in expanding opportunities for AIA to better connect with existing constituents, as well as broadening the base of constituents available to AIA. I constantly push myself to expand my perspective, continue to build my skillsets, and always give my best to everything I put my mind to. This translates into a committee partner who is committed, energized, and capable of collaborating with others to take the board to the next level. I very much look forward to this opportunity.

Young Architect Director

Maria Isabel Balda

Job: Health Education Planner, HOK

Candidate Statement: I am excited for the opportunity to serve as Young Architect Director for AIA DC, and to contribute to such a thriving and inclusive community. As an immigrant and minority young architect, key mentorships and community have played such an important role in my career and development. I would like to help create those same opportunities for other young architects in the area, by representing their perspectives within AIA DC. My professional and volunteer experiences have drawn me toward service and mentorship. Within professional practice I have led JEDI initiatives at my first firm and engaged with leadership on issues of diversity and inclusion, contributed to the development of the Architect Registration Exams as a volunteer, and mentored architecture and design students at various institutions throughout the years. These experiences have allowed me to engage with the profession from different perspectives and reinforced my belief in the intersectionality of practice; what makes our professional special is creating these connections between education, licensure, practice, community, and advocacy. As the Young Architect Director, I would be especially interested in representing young architects and help build relationships beyond individual firms, by creating opportunities for professional development and service. I would bring my passion for mentorship and community, a deep sense of curiosity, and willingness to listen to as many different perspectives from my peers across the DC region. I see this position as an opportunity to expand my reach beyond the various groups I am a part of and hopefully encourage a larger group of people to become active participants in our community and engage as future leaders.

James Jesmer

Job: Associate, AECOM

Candidate Statement: AIA has helped shape my development from student to licensed architect since joining AIAS in 2013. AIA|DC has been my home chapter since 2020—I became involved with the Design Excellence Committee in 2021, serving as Secretary for the next three years. In 2023, I was accepted into the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program as a scholar, later serving as Sponsorship Advisor and Co-Chair. CKLDP, in particular has connected me with an incredible network of emerging professionals across the city. I hope to bring these experiences and more to a role on the AIA|DC Board of Directors. I have been with AECOM for more than eight years, the last three spent in the role of Associate and licensed architect. During that time, I have helped design civic and commercial projects of varying scales and complexity. In addition to project work, I maintain a focus on professional development, design excellence, and employee engagement initiatives across the firm. These initiatives have reinforced the value of creating opportunities for young architects to develop skills to be successful within their firms and benefit the design community. Throughout my early career, I’ve also been fortunate to maintain a relationship with my alma mater, the University of Maryland, where I have participated on studio juries and as a professional mentor. As Young Architect Director, I would work to increase emerging architects’ participation in AIA|DC’s committees and initiatives, while creating more opportunities for dialogue about the future of architectural practice. Most importantly, I will ensure the perspectives of young architects are represented in board meetings and initiatives.

Associate Director

Terry Bitar

Job: Managing Partner & President, Bitarchitects & Bitarchitects Construction

Candidate Statement: I am running for AIA|DC Associate Director to strengthen our profession’s voice, broaden its reach, and create opportunities for members. Having built Bitarchitects from the ground up and established Bitarchitects Construction, I understand the pressures of running a practice, developing talent, and communicating the value of architecture. My experience across Lebanon and the United States brings different cultural, business, and community perspectives to that work. I would draw on my relationships across design, construction, business, and philanthropy to connect members with collaborators and opportunities. I would also champion fresh approaches to branding and public engagement that make architects’ contributions more visible and bring new audiences into the conversation. Founding Charity Donation Foundation at 22 taught me that people need support and that achievement extends beyond one person’s success to the success of a whole community. I would bring that conviction to the board by listening to members, advocating for their needs, and helping turn shared ideas into meaningful action. I would be honored to earn your vote.

Saakshi Terway

Job: Project Designer, Quinn Evans

Candidate Statement: What draws me to AIA leadership is helping people see a place for themselves in our profession and giving them opportunities to shape it. As an active AIA|DC volunteer leader for more than nine years, I have found mentors, built friendships, and helped create those opportunities for others. I want more members to experience that same sense of belonging and possibility. I care about ensuring that members feel valued for what they contribute today, whether they are recent graduates, seasoned practitioners, working toward licensure, or following another career path. That commitment has guided my work mentoring professionals, supporting students, and developing practical resources. Within AIA|DC, I helped lead the Urban Design Committee through the pandemic, co-founded the Historic Resources and Women in Architecture and Design Committees, supported EAC and CKLDP as an Adcom member, and represented DC members through the AIA National Associates Committee. As a Design Professional at Quinn Evans, licensed in India and on track to obtaining U.S. licensure. My work in practice, licensure advising, and student outreach keeps me connected to the challenges and aspirations of members and future members. My service as Associate Representative on the AIA Strategic Council and Associate Director on the AIA Board has broadened my understanding of leadership, financial stewardship, and our profession’s future. As those terms conclude, I am eager to bring that experience home to AIA|DC. As AIA|DC’s Associate Director, I would help strengthen the connection between members and chapter leadership by bringing their perspectives into board discussions and supporting continued dialogue. I would also help connect current and future members with mentorship, career resources, and leadership opportunities, strengthening the chapter’s membership pipeline and building a community where people feel supported, know their voices matter, and can shape what comes next.

Ian Walker

Job: Project Manager, Turner & Townsend Heery

Candidate Statement: Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to work from several different perspectives within our industry. Those experiences have reinforced my belief that strong communities are created through collaboration, trust, and a willingness to get involved. My involvement with AIA|DC began through the Emerging Architects Committee, where I found a community of professionals committed to supporting one another and improving the profession. Since then, I've looked for opportunities to contribute through mentorship, community service, and volunteer leadership, whether organizing an ARE study group, leading community improvement projects, or teaching as an adjunct professor at the University of the District of Columbia. I've also had the opportunity to work across architecture, construction, project management, and owner's representation. Seeing projects from different sides has given me an appreciation for how important communication, relationships, and practical problem-solving are to the success of our profession. It has also shown me that some of the biggest opportunities for growth come from building stronger connections between students, emerging professionals, and experienced practitioners. If elected, I hope to bring an action-oriented mindset to the Board. I believe AIA|DC has a tremendous opportunity to strengthen connections between students, emerging professionals, and established practitioners while continuing to serve as a strong voice for the profession. I'm interested in initiatives that lead to measurable results, create lasting value for members, and help build the next generation of leaders within our community. Most importantly, I want to help ensure that AIA|DC remains a place where members build meaningful relationships, find opportunities to grow, and feel inspired to contribute to the future of the profession.