IMPORTANT DATES

September 17, 2025
Slate of Candidates Published

October 2, 2025
Last Day to be Added to the Slate of Candidates

October 16, 2025
Election and Annual Meeting of Members at Converge San Diego ‘25


The 2026 slate of candidates will serve alongside incoming President Ben Dalton, AIA, and Past President Katee Chard, AIA.

2026 Slate of Candidates

We’re excited to introduce this year’s candidates for the AIA San Diego Board of Directors. Each candidate has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing the architecture profession and supporting our chapter’s mission.

Each officer and director shall serve a term of one year. Terms of office shall be from January 1 through December 31. Directors may serve for up to three consecutive years.

Any member is encouraged to submit a nomination. To be eligible, Executive Officers must be AIA Architect members in good standing and, ideally, shall have served previously on the Board of Directors or in Committee leadership.

EXECUTIVE OFFICER NOMINATIONS

POSITION

NOMINATED

  • The Vice President/President-elect shall possess all the powers and perform all the duties of the President in the event of the absence of the President or of the President's disability, refusal, or failure to act and shall perform such other duties as are properly assigned by the Board of Directors or the President.

    The Vice President/President-elect shall succeed to the office of President upon expiration of the term of office of the President.

  • The Secretary serves as the recording and corresponding officer of the Chapter and Board of Directors. This role includes preparing meeting minutes, issuing official notices, maintaining the membership roll, and keeping the Chapter’s records, reports, and seal in order. The Secretary is also responsible for submitting required reports to AIA National and AIA California, and for keeping those records up to date.

    While some administrative tasks may be delegated to staff, the Secretary remains responsible for all official certifications, property oversight, and Chapter documentation.

  • The Treasurer oversees the financial affairs of the Chapter, including preparing budgets, managing accounts, tracking income and expenses, and maintaining financial records. This role includes collecting dues, issuing receipts, disbursing funds, and safeguarding all financial documents and assets.

    The Treasurer provides written financial reports at regular Board meetings and an annual report for the membership. While certain tasks may be delegated to staff, the Treasurer retains responsibility for all official financial matters and reporting.

  • Firm: Studio E Architects

    Maxine Ward, a Principal at Studio E Architects, has over 20 years of experience in both the U.S. and the U.K., focusing on projects that promote design accessibility. Known for her commitment to community engagement and leadership in organizations like the San Diego Architectural Foundation, Maxine brings strong organizational skills, a holistic design perspective, and a proven dedication to the San Diego architectural community.

  • Firm: domusstudio

    Michael Meizen is an Associate at domusstudio architecture.  With over 14 years of experience spanning sacred, education, housing, and commercial projects, Michael combines financial stewardship and a commitment to sustainable design. His expertise in financial alignment with mission goals will bring a valuable perspective to the Treasurer role.

  • Firm: MC Consultants

    A Graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Scott is a Senior Consultant and Architect at MC Consultants in Carlsbad. He also sits as a Member of the Escondido Building Advisory and Appeals Board.

    In this role, Scott intends to increase the voice of Architects in San Diego and especially the North County area by supporting the needs of our profession in our community.

BOARD OF DIRECTOR NOMINATIONS

Note: Co-director positions are available.

Position

  • The purpose of this directorship is to identify pressing issues in local governance which affect the profession and the business of architecture, to develop communications plans or campaigns to advocate on behalf of architects and the architecture community, and to fortify relationship with key government and civic leaders in pursuit of those goals. In recent years, the top issues have been drafting a Mayoral Agenda, advocating for a city architect, and addressing the challenges that architects face in the PPP and design build landscape.

CANDIDATEs

  • Director of Advocacy Co‑Director Candidate

    Firm: The Miller Hull Partnership LLP

    Jonathan French is an Architect and Project Manager at the Miller Hull Partnership, with deep experience in design and strategic planning for Civic Institutions and Higher Education. Within AIA San Diego, Jonathan has served as Chair of the Regional Design Advisory Council (RDAC) from 2024-25, and before that as an active member. Jonathan is committed to advocating for equity and high quality design within our built environment and public spaces, making him a strong choice for continuing to develop our chapter's connections with local politicians and governmental agencies.

  • Director of Advocacy Co-Director Candidate

    Firm: Architects Mosher Drew

    Brer Marsh is a Project Architect at Architects Mosher Drew, where he leads institutional and K–12 educational modernization eff orts across San Diego County. A licensed architect and long-time civic advocate, Brer brings over two decades of diverse experience ranging from international competitions to community-centered planning. His public service includes appointments to the Balboa Park Committee, Uptown Planners Community Planning Group, leadership roles with BikeSD, and ongoing participation with local transportation and housing groups. Brer’s deep commitment to livable cities, thoughtful design, and policy engagement makes him a passionate and well-qualifi ed candidate for Director of Advocacy.Firm: Architects Mosher Drew

    Brer Marsh is a Project Architect at Architects Mosher Drew, where he leads institutional and K–12 educational modernization eff orts across San Diego County. A licensed architect and long-time civic advocate, Brer brings over two decades of diverse experience ranging from international competitions to community-centered planning. His public service includes appointments to the Balboa Park Committee, Uptown Planners Community Planning Group, leadership roles with BikeSD, and ongoing participation with local transportation and housing groups. Brer’s deep commitment to livable cities, thoughtful design, and policy engagement makes him a passionate and well-qualifi ed candidate for Director of Advocacy.

  • The Director of EDI+J shall work to achieve and uphold the vision of the American Institute of Architects to champion a culture of equity, diversity, inclusion, and justice within the profession through the implementation of programs and campaigns. Additionally, the Director shall oversee administration of the Laura Shinn Diversity in Architecture Scholarship fund.

  • Director of EDI+J Co‑Director Candidate

    Firm: Steinberg Hart

    Lina Asad is a Senior Associate at Steinberg Hart, bringing a deep understanding of the challenges faced by minority communities and a commitment to fostering equity within the architectural profession. As the Chair of the We in Architecture (WE-A) Committee for AIASD, Lina has successfully led initiatives that promote diversity and justice across the field, making meaningful strides toward a more inclusive profession.

    Lina is also dedicated to advancing opportunities for underrepresented architects, including overseeing impactful programs such as the Laura Shinn Diversity in Architecture Scholarship. With her extensive experience and passion for equity, Lina is poised to serve as a strong voice and advocate for justice within the AIA San Diego community.

  • Director of EDI+J Co‑Director Candidate

    Firm: Gensler

    Zachary Silver brings a deep commitment to inclusive, equitable, and accessible design as the Southwest Regional Director of Inclusive Design at Gensler San Diego. With two years in this role, Zachary has led coaching and implementation of inclusive design strategies across Gensler’s Southwest region, which includes Southern California, Colorado, and Nevada. His work emphasizes creating impactful, people-centered spaces that align closely with AIA San Diego’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice (EDI+J) goals.

    Zachary’s involvement with AIA San Diego has included presentations on inclusive design at the A’23 AIASD Conference and a collaborative project tour of the Southwestern College Wellness and Aquatic Center. Driven by a passion for amplifying diverse voices and perspectives, Zachary looks forward to advancing AIASD’s mission of fostering an inclusive and empowered design community.Firm: Gensler

    Zachary Silver brings a deep commitment to inclusive, equitable, and accessible design as the Southwest Regional Director of Inclusive Design at Gensler San Diego. With two years in this role, Zachary has led coaching and implementation of inclusive design strategies across Gensler’s Southwest region, which includes Southern California, Colorado, and Nevada. His work emphasizes creating impactful, people-centered spaces that align closely with AIA San Diego’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice (EDI+J) goals.

    Zachary’s involvement with AIA San Diego has included presentations on inclusive design at the A’23 AIASD Conference and a collaborative project tour of the Southwestern College Wellness and Aquatic Center. Driven by a passion for amplifying diverse voices and perspectives, Zachary looks forward to advancing AIASD’s mission of fostering an inclusive and empowered design community.

  • The Government Relations Director acts as AIA San Diego’s primary liaison to public officials, regulatory bodies, and government agencies. This position plays a vital role in advocating for the architectural profession, educating decision-makers on relevant policy and legislative issues, and ensuring our members are represented in local and state discussions.

  • Director of Government Relations Candidate

    Firm: HMC Architects

    Kyle Peterson is Managing Principal of HMC Architects’ San Diego studio, where he leads a 25-person team with a focus on strategic growth, mentorship, and community impact. A licensed architect with 25 years of experience and a strong foundation in public architecture, Kyle serves on HMC’s Board of Directors and is a firmwide Practice Leader for Community and Culture. His advocacy experience spans municipal partnerships and policy engagement, making him a compelling voice for elevating architecture’s role in shaping sustainable and resilient communities. As a candidate for Director of Government Relations, Kyle brings a deep commitment to civic leadership and policy influence across San Diego County.

  • The purpose of this directorship is to advocate for the architectural community in North Count and the non-urban core, the bulk of which is represented by smaller firms and sole practitioners.

  • Director of North County Candidate

    Firm: ESG Architecture & Design

    Conor Brown is a Senior Associate and Project Architect at ESG Architecture & Design, where he leads large-scale housing, mixed-use, and life science developments across the country. Licensed in California, Washington, and Oregon, Conor brings over a decade of experience across multiple regions and markets—including key leadership roles in Seattle and San Diego. His portfolio includes high-impact transit-oriented developments, adaptive reuse, and supportive housing. A former elected board member of the Downtown Community Planning Council in San Diego, Conor’s recent relocation to North County and commitment to sustainable urban growth make him a valuable voice as Director of North County

  • The purpose of this directorship is to identify emerging trends in practice, facilitate and broadcast communication about the wide range of topics that are relevant to today’s practice of Architecture, and develop programs accordingly.

  • Director of Practice Candidate

    Firm: AC Martin Inc.

    Sami Khoury is a Principal, Operations Director, and San Diego Studio Leader at AC Martin Inc. With over 20 years of experience, Sami has made it his mission to strengthen the architectural practice through leadership and innovation. His professional journey includes significant contributions at leading firms such as NBBJ Design, Steinberg Hart, and Carrier Johnson +CULTURE, where he gained expertise in design, project management, financial oversight, and talent acquisition.

    Sami’s portfolio spans multifamily housing, higher education, life sciences, urban planning, and adaptive reuse projects, offering him a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the field. He is passionate about fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge in areas such as project management, business practices, technical standards, and emerging technologies.

    As Co-Director of Practice, Sami aims to serve as a resource for AIA San Diego members, advocating for best practices and addressing the evolving needs of the profession. His vision is to create a collaborative and inclusive environment that strengthens our shared commitment to architectural excellence.

  • The Young & Emerging Professionals Director(s) supports those who have recently completed their academic studies, those on the path to licensure, and those within ten years or less of licensure. The YEP Director(s) also liaises with local academic institutions and students enrolled in architecture programs. YEP Director(s) may form Committee(s) to create programs supporting path to licensure, interdisciplinary networking, exam prep, and more. YEP Directors take an active role in the annual Young Architect of the Year (YAYA) program (Fall), and will be encouraged to implement programs which support mentorship.

  • Director of Young Emerging Professionals Candidate

    Firm: DPR Construction

    Anthony has over 24 years in the AEC industry and is the Higher Education Core Market Leader at DPR Construction. He has a passion for design, innovation, and sustainability matched by a desire to activate youth interest in our industry and provide mentorship and career guidance for emerging architectural professionals. He has been involved with ACE Mentor San Diego since 2004 where he has served as board President and he also volunteers with AIA San Diego and the San Diego Architectural Foundation. Anthony is deeply committed to supporting the future talent of our industry, giving back to the community, and leading by example.

APPLY TO JOIN THE BOARD

Per our chapter guidelines, the slate will be open for additional nominations until October 2. Please use the form below to apply.

Upon review of the Nominating Committee’s Slate, any member in good standing may request to be added to the slate by producing letters from no less than ten (10) assigned members in good standing nominating him/her for a specific director position.

If there is only one nominee for any directorship, two weeks (approx. 14 days) days before the election date, the Secretary may cast a ballot of the full number of votes of the membership for the said nominee, whereupon the President shall declare the nominee(s) elected by acclamation. Otherwise, the name of each nominee for each contested director position shall be placed on ballots for the voting thereof. Such voting shall be by ballot in accordance with the provisions of the Bylaws. The voting will take place at the annual meeting of the members.

If you have questions about the commitment or would like to find out more about the opportunities, Please contact the Chair of the Nominating Committee, Vice President Ben Dalton at bdalton@MillerHull.com.

Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee is responsible for reviewing submissions and preparing the final slate of candidates for the 2026 election.

Chair: Ben Dalton, AIA

NC Member: Victor Navarro, AIA

NC Member: David Keitel, AIA

NC Member: Heather Ruszczyk, AIA

NC Member: Mitra Kanaani, FAIA