The deep-dive pre-conference sessions began Tuesday morning. The first session was provided by Joan Williams and was titled “Bias Interrupters in a Firm.” Bias interrupters are tweaks to basic business systems (hiring, performance evaluations, assignments, promotions, compensation, etc.) that interrupt implicit bias in the workplace, often without ever talking about bias. This workshop is designed to provide architects, design professionals, and firms with solutions to address specific profession biases based on the research completed by The Center for WorkLife Law.

Next were walking tours of the French Quarter, the oldest, most famous and most unpredictable neighborhood in New Orleans. The French Quarter — also called the Vieux Carré, or “old square” — is centered on Jackson Square, which St. Louis Cathedral overlooks, and the Three Squares, Three Cultures (Jackson Square, Congo Square and Lafayette Square), which are of profound historical importance. The history, culture and people influenced the buildings in this neighborhood. Although they are identical in size, each originated from and contributed to distinct historical cultures.

• Iconic Jackson Square, facing the Mississippi River, was founded by the French in 1718.
• Just beyond the original city boundary, Congo Square, founded in the early 19th century, is famous for its history of African American music and culture.
• Farther uptown across Canal St. Lafayette Square became the government seat for the 19th century American Sector.

The final tour was of the Albert and Tina Small Center for Collaborative Design. The Small Center, Tulane School of Architecture’s community design center, believes all residents should have a voice in shaping neighborhoods and communities. This tour showcased the center’s work across New Orleans, including design-build projects ranging from the city’s first official skatepark to shade structures and playscapes. The center’s design process supports capacity and coalition building on critical issues and collaborates with residents and nonprofits to strengthen neighborhoods and create a better future.

The Welcome Reception was held at Mardi Gras World. We experienced what it takes to bring Mardi Gras to life. Located along the 1400 Mississippi, the awesome venue gave us a flavor of the city. Towering columns, magical footbridges, magnificent oak trees and a starlit sky all add to the sense of wonder. We enjoyed delicious New Orleans food and entertainment as we networked with new and old friends.

Wednesday morning began with the opening general session and Mayors’ Panel on “Urban Resilience and Equity.” The panel consisted of:

• Kathy Ehley, the 16th Mayor of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin,
• Quinton Lucas, current Mayor of Kansas City, Missouri, and
• Wade Nomura, the Mayor of Carpinteria, California.

Following the Mayors’ Panel were breakout sessions about sharing our climate stories on the topics of energy, economy, or equitable communities. How are we dealing with the climate challenge in a meaningful way? What resources and tools are available as a pathway to healthier, more sustainable communities? We participated in an engaging and interactive session as the panelists shared their firm and component stories of how they are tackling climate change and care for their communities by becoming carbon neutral.

The afternoon sessions included the AIA Strategic Plan: Integrating Environmental Stewardship by Brian Frickie, AIA, an update of AIA’s strategic plan currently underway; Engaging with Mayor Matthew Lister and Senator Tim Kearney, AIA, discussion on how public life drives design, policy, and governance, cities thrive; Financial Responsibility and Risk Awareness by Bob Harris, CAE, a discussion on how sound financial management is essential to the effective operation of every organization; Leading Through Influence by Izzy Gesell, a discussion on building relationships and communicating ideas to others with credibility, confidence, and clarity; Speak Like a Pro by Gary Rifkin, CSP, a discussion on the ability to communicate with professionalism and passion is a requirement for today’s leader; Preparing for the AIA Annual Meeting by Jason Winters, AIA, Institute Secretary, covering everything you need to know before attending the annual meeting in 2020; AIA Continuing Education Services Program and Understanding HSW by Stephen Martin, a discussion on the AIA CES system.