Washington, D.C. – September 12, 2017 – The Architects Foundation Board of Directors today announced the appointment of Marci Reed, CFRE, MPA, to serve as the Executive Director of the organization. Starting on October 2^nd, Reed will be responsible for all programs and activities related to the Architects Foundation, the philanthropic partner of The American Institute of Architects (AIA).

Reed joins the Architects Foundation from Southface Energy Institute, where she served as the Chief Officer of Development and Communications. At Southface, Reed directed key management initiatives, oversaw fundraising and communications activities, and served as a spokesperson for the organization. Reed was also Southface’s first director of development and communications from 2000-2006.

“We couldn’t be more confident in the skills that Marci brings to the Architects Foundation,” said Jeffery Potter, FAIA, who chairs the Foundation Board. “She also brings creativity and proven leadership, so I’m excited for the Foundation’s future in expanding the role it plays in improving the profession.” Reed has previous AIA experience, including serving as Executive Director of AIA Georgia, AIA Atlanta, and the Architecture Foundation of Georgia. Reed attended Georgia State University, where she earned a BA in English and then completed her MPA, Nonprofit Management.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Architects Foundation at this exciting moment,” Reed said. “After last year’s generous gift to the Foundation of $1M from AIA, we are able to expand the Diversity Advancement Scholarship program for 2018-2019 and give more students the chance to pursue a successful career in architecture. At the same time, we will look to enhance our preservation efforts and pursue additional programming areas for the future.” The application submission period for the Architects Foundation’s Diversity Advancement Scholarships will open on October 25, 2017.  Learn more at architectsfoundation.org.

About The Architects Foundation

The Architects Foundation was created to celebrate architecture’s value by advancing tomorrow’s design leaders and preserving architectural treasures of the past. The Architects Foundation is positioning itself for new success, preparing to launch a momentous increase in scholarship programming, thanks to a recent gift of $1 million from AIA. By enhancing the program, the Foundation aims to attract and cultivate a diverse next generation of architects, and provide new opportunities to support the evolution of the profession. The Architects Foundation also preserves the historic Octagon building in the nation’s capital, seeking ways to best express the values of historic preservation work and keep the Octagon’s legacy alive with exhibits, educational programs and partnerships.

About The American Institute of Architects

Founded in 1857, The American Institute of Architects consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world.