As reported last month in ARCHITECT, Miller & Chevalier—the law firm hired to conduct an independent investigation regarding allegations of American Institute of Architects (AIA) misspending and retaliation by 22 former AIA presidents, found no evidence of wrongdoing, vindicating AIA CEO Lakisha Ann Woods of previous corruption and mismanagement allegations.
Now that the 2024 AIA Board was recently made aware of a coordinated campaign being driven by various AIA stakeholders to publicly discredit the EVP/CEO and the wider 2024 AIA Board, they have asked the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) for a formal review, which involves allegations of misconduct.
The NEC is responsible for interpreting and enforcing the American Institute of Architects' (AIA) Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. It handles complaints related to the ethical behavior of AIA members, and it reviews these complaints, determines if a violation has occurred, and issues appropriate penalties, which can include censure, suspension, or even termination of AIA membership. Decisions can be appealed to the AIA Board of Directors.
In recent years, the NEC has addressed a wide range of ethical issues. These include cases of misrepresentation of qualifications, failure to credit contributions, and conflicts of interest. For example, recent decisions have involved architects misleading clients about project capabilities, improperly using partnership funds, or failing to give credit where due.
In a press release, the AIA Board pledged to act swiftly once the NEC provides its recommendations, with the aim of preventing any further actions that could undermine the organization. “Once the NEC responds with recommendations for the Board, we will act with expediency to prevent future similar destructive behavior that has the potential to negatively impact the health of our organization,” the AIA stated. “Based on the results of the independent review, and considering other key performance indicators, the Board, again, unanimously approved a strong vote of confidence in CEO/EVP Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE, and her ability to lead the organization with integrity and highly specialized association expertise.”
The AIA Board stated: “We trust that Woods is exactly who we need in this position to forge a stronger future for AIA. As this action demonstrates, the Board remains steadfast in our support of AIA EVP/CEO Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE, and her team. Together, we are focused on providing best-in-class service to our membership and fulfilling AIA’s strategic priorities.”
As the organization approaches a major milestone—welcoming its 100,000th member in 2024—the Board reinforced its focus on delivering top-tier services to its members and upholding the organization’s values and reaffirmed its commitment to the institute’s mission. The Board concluded: “We express our sincerest gratitude to the entire AIA community for their dedication to the organization and the profession of architecture. We remain committed to serving AIA’s mission with every decision that we make.”
The NEC’s findings are expected to play a crucial role in shaping how the AIA navigates this situation moving forward. However, the Board’s message is clear: Lakisha Ann Woods continues to have their full confidence as they work together to ensure the long-term health and success of the AIA.
