AIA Philadelphia’s event, Spring into Action – A Conversation with Kimberly Dowdell and Jamie Gauthier, took place on June 20th, 2024. At the event, Kimberly Dowdell and Jamie Gauthier addressed the critical question: “How do we create more affordable and sustainable housing opportunities in Philadelphia?”
Kimberly Dowdell is the president of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and former president of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA). She is a leading advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in the architectural profession. She shared her vision for the Chief Architect initiative and the pivotal role architects play in shaping equitable, sustainable communities.
Jamie Gauthier is a Philadelphia City Councilmember. She is renowned for her dedication to affordable housing and tenant protection. Jamie discussed her initiatives, such as the Built to Last program and efforts to prevent displacement and discrimination against voucher users. With a focus on the city’s goal of creating 30,000 housing units, Gauthier will explored the challenges and opportunities in achieving this target, including funding strategies, comprehensive planning, and the role of transit-oriented development (TOD).
Participants discussed the AIA’s mission and its alignment with Philadelphia’s housing challenges.