Building Legacy

As I reflect on my year serving as president of the Texas Society of Architects, I am filled with gratitude—for the people, the conversations, and the shared vision that shaped 2025 into a year of meaningful progress. At the heart of this journey there was a simple but powerful belief: that the future of our profession depends on the relationships we build and the people we invest in. Architecture is not a solitary pursuit. It thrives on collaboration, mentorship, and the exchange of ideas. This year, we made it a priority to create more intentional opportunities for emerging professionals to connect with seasoned architects—not just to learn, but to be heard, challenged, and inspired.

For 2025 , the TxA Board decided to shake things up by holding our board meetings at architecture schools across Texas. It wasn’t just about changing the scenery; it was about meeting future architects where they are and starting real conversations. These weren’t your typical networking events. They were spaces where people shared their stories, explored career possibilities, and sparked ideas that could shape the next generation of TxA leadership. I’ll never forget meeting Lei’Aylah, an undergraduate from Wichita Falls, at the University of Texas at Austin. She talked about her internship at BYSP Architects and how working closely with Dick Bundy, FAIA—the 2005 TxA president—boosted her confidence as a young designer. Hearing that reminded me just how powerful mentorship can be when someone takes the time to truly connect.

We recognize that mentorship is a two-way street. Emerging professionals bring fresh perspectives, digital fluency, and a deep commitment to equity and sustainability. Their energy is not just the future of architecture—it’s the fuel we need today. By cultivating reciprocal relationships, we’re not only preparing the next generation to lead, we’re evolving our own practices in the process. This year reminded me that leadership is not about having all the answers. It’s about creating conditions for all of us to thrive. It’s about showing up and listening.

As we look ahead, I challenge each of you to continue this work. Reach out to someone just starting their journey; invite them into your process and help them create a path. Share your failures as well as your successes, because both have value. When we invest in people, we invest in the future of our profession. It’s been an honor to serve the Texas architectural community. The relationships built this year will continue to strengthen and shape our profession for years to come, and I couldn’t be more hopeful about where we’re headed.