Each month, the AIAS highlights the outstanding dedication and accomplishments of one of its members. The Chapter Leader of the Month can be a Chapter President or any member who has shown tremendous leadership.

 

   

June 2018 Chapter Leader of the Month: Forrest Wood

Auburn University

Forrest Wood is currently a fourth-year student at Auburn University studying architecture and interior architecture who served as the 2017–2018 Chapter President. Forrest values lasting relationships that span both year level and field of study and has a desire to prepare students for their years in school studying architecture and for post-graduation employment.

In the past year, Forrest and his executive board have founded a $25,000 endowed scholarship for Auburn AIAS members (building off the hard work of past leaders), organized an internship fair with over 60 firms from the Southeast United States, organized the 29th Annual Pumpkin Carve event to fundraise for the Chapter, and have continued other traditions such as hosting mock interviews with local architects, resume and portfolio workshops with professors, mentorship events and weekly Dog Days fundraising socials.

South Quad Director Sarry Curry said that Forrest has demonstrated how to be an outstanding Chapter President. “Forrest was able to: coordinate and fundraise travel to AIAS conferences for more students than ever before; organize an executive board that maximizes everyone’s potential; help fill gaps in the design, service, and leadership of Auburn’s B.Arch, MLA, and ENVD programs; and finalize the creation of the Auburn AIAS’ endowed scholarship. He has more than filled the shoes of his predecessors and has set a new standard for future Chapter Presidents at Auburn University,” said Sarah.

Forrest has learned that the most effective method of successfully leading a large chapter is through close coordination with a capable and multi-year level executive board, and through a close, professional relationship with the faculty and staff of one’s school.  The AIAS has impacted the way Forrest views architecture as a philosophy and as a practice, and he is proud to be a small part of the amazing group of individuals that make up the future of the design field!