Individual commitment to a group effort – that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.
~Vince Lombardi

Every year during the holiday season the “red kettle campaign” begins, with volunteers at every Kroger, Macy’s and CVS in town. I’m often struck by the number of people that walk swiftly past, without a glance or offering of “thank you” to those frozen bell-ringers. We all know that every little bit counts – each and every penny, dime or dollar that is contributed helps the greater mission that organization stands for; doing the most good.

As I reflect on what AIA Detroit has done as an organization this past year, after committing to “doing the most good”, I am still astounded by the number of committee and volunteer hours; CEU credits; competitions, and networking opportunities we offered this past year. If you attended the Annual Meeting, you had the opportunity to see and hear about all the phenomenal work that we have done to increase the visibility and voice of architecture in Detroit. In my opinion, we have done better than simply “good”; we have been exemplary in the services provided to you, our members. And I say this, with a resounding applause, to the efforts of Lauren Myrand and Charlie Klecha, who contributed more than their share to making each of these services and events an outstanding success. There aren’t enough thank you’s in the world to signify our gratitude for their efforts.

I’m thankful to all the board members who dedicated Tuesday evenings to board meetings that sometimes ran long; I’m overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of our committee chairs, committee members and volunteers who gave their spare time and talents to one of our many committees and events; I’m ever grateful to our partners, sponsors, and affiliates who not only supported us, but spoke on our behalf in support of AIA Detroit’s Mission. Finally, I feel indebted to both Lauren and Charlie for their tireless efforts – both on-stage and off-stage – in helping each and every one of the events you see here run smoothly – putting extra miles on their vehicles and extra steps on their fit-bits despite our sometimes-chaotic architectural world.

So, Andrew, as you start 2019, I know that you’ll lead us with an honest and approachable “blueprint for better” plan – and you’ll no doubt bring your own version of awareness and transformation of the AIA to life.

For next year, I know that each of YOU have gifts and talents to share; and each of you are uniquely qualified to contribute to our profession in your own personal way. I urge you to share your gifts with others; in whatever small way you can, and volunteer in our efforts to achieving the mission of our organization; let’s be the voice of architecture in Metro Detroit together.

Thank you all for the great work this past year; it has been an honor and a privilege to serve you as President of AIA Detroit. I know that this organization will not only survive but thrive as we move forward with big plans for 2019, including revisions to our strategic plan. As Maya Angelou wisely stated, “My mission is life is not to merely survive, but to thrive; and do so with some passion, some humor and some style.”

Cheers and best wishes for a prosperous 2019,

Kimberly N. Montague, AIA, EDAC, LEED AP
AIA Detroit 2018 President