Please join the AIA Detroit Board and membership at our 2025 Annual Meeting, taking place on Tuesday, November 11th, at Lawrence Tech’s Lear Auditorium in Southfield, beginning at 6:00pm.

This meeting will include the annual report to the membership and the election of the 2026 AIA Detroit Board of Directors.  AIA Members will also be voting on our Chapter’s Bylaws changes. We will discuss our updated Strategic Plan and other successes from 2025.

Food and beverages will be provided. We hope you will attend!

Those unable to attend the 2025 Annual Meeting may request an absentee ballot by emailing elections@aiadetroit.com with your name and AIA Member number by November 10, 5:00pm. Absentee ballots must be completed by 12:00pm on November 11th. (You must be an AIA Detroit Member in good standing to vote)

RSVP Here for the 2025 Annual Meeting

GET TO KNOW THIS YEAR’S SLATE OF CANDIDATES…

VICE PRESIDENT/PRESIDENT ELECT

Paul R. Wills, AIA, LEED
Plante Moran Realpoint

Bio:
Paul, a partner with Plante Moran Realpoint, specializes in preconstruction planning, program feasibility, and program oversight services. Paul excels in helping decision makers define and meet key program success parameters, goals, and objectives. This includes assisting with the selection of design and construction team members, working with clients to achieve favorable designs within funding, and monitoring program progress.

Paul has more than 30 years of program management experience and has completed successful capital projects worth more than $5 billion. He has assisted numerous clients across Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, and Florida on more than 600 facilities projects involving building assessments, conceptual programming, bonding approval, and design and construction for educational facilities, municipal offices, law enforcement, fire and EMS, libraries, courts, recreation centers, and DPW facilities.

Paul received his Bachelor of Science (1996) and Master of Architecture (1997) degrees from Lawrence Technological University. He became a licensed architect in 2001. Paul is a LEED-accredited professional (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). He is certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).

Paul regularly presents at industry sector conferences and seminars including CASBO, CASA, MASB, MASA, MSBO, MLI, MML, and MGFOA.

Paul volunteers his time mentoring numerous architectural students annually through the AIA mentorship program, LTU’s architectural alumni association, and co-chaired the Southfield Public Schools STEM Advisory Council for over 8 years. He has also served as the AIA Detroit Treasurer since 2024.

 

SECRETARY

Zachary Funk, AIA
CBRE | Ford Land

Statement:
Over the past year, I have had the privilege to serve as the appointed Secretary of the AIA Detroit Board of Directors, and I am seeking re-election to continue in that role. During my term, I also contributed as a member of the AIA Detroit Advocacy Task Force, advocating for policy, community engagement, and stronger ties between architects and the community. We worked hard as a board over the last year to update our strategic plan and align it more with our member’s vision. I am confident that my diverse background and comprehensive experience offers a unique perspective to the board and benefits the architectural community. I bring a well-rounded view of the challenges and opportunities facing our profession today.

As an active participant in AIA Detroit, I participated in the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program, moderated roundtable discussions, and contributed to workshops and studio reviews. AIA Detroit has been a critical driver of innovation, collaboration, and advocacy for the profession in our region and I am eager to contribute my knowledge, skills, and passion to ensure that AIA Detroit remains a leader in advancing the profession, supporting its members, and shaping the future of the built environment in the region and beyond.

I will continue to leverage my expertise and experience to advance AIA Detroit’s strategic initiatives and to grow the profession within the region. I will advocate for initiatives to support professional development through education and programming to help members continue to stay competitive in an ever-changing profession due to technological advancements and client demands. I am also committed to continuing to make the organization a strong voice for the profession by promoting the value of design to public officials and the community stakeholders. I will continue to work with the Board and our task forces to advance the organization’s vision and strategic plan.

My involvement with AIA has deepened my commitment to the profession and to the community of architects in Detroit, and I look forward to hopefully serving once again on the Board to continue fostering the growth of the organization and the profession.

Bio:
Zach Funk is a dedicated architect with 15 years of experience spanning private practice, public service, and ownership representation. He currently serves as Project Architect at Ford Land/CBRE, where he provides leadership and oversight on a variety of high-profile projects shaping the future of Ford Motor Company’s global campuses. His work includes guiding the design and delivery of the new Ford World Headquarters, The Dearborn Inn, and contributing to strategic master planning initiatives both domestically and abroad. Through this role, Zach bridges architectural design with business strategy and project management helping to advance Ford’s vision for the workplace of the future.

In 2025, Zach was appointed by the Governor of Michigan to serve on the State Board of Architects, where he helps uphold professional standards and guide the future of architectural licensure in the state.

Before joining Ford Land, Zach served as an Urban Designer with the City of Detroit, where he led design reviews for new developments and contributed to key planning documents that supported small business growth and neighborhood revitalization. He also serves as a Planning Commissioner for the City of Plymouth.

Zach’s private practice experience includes a decade with firms such as Neumann/Smith Architecture and JPRA Architects, where he contributed to projects across multifamily housing, higher education, and retail. A graduate of Lawrence Technological University (M.Arch) and University of Detroit Mercy (B.S. Architecture), he brings both technical expertise and a collaborative leadership style to every endeavor. His ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage client relationships, and navigate complex design challenges has been integral to his success.

Outside of architecture, Zach enjoys life in Plymouth with his wife and three young children. He enjoys traveling, exploring new restaurants, and engaging with the local community.

 

DETROIT DIRECTOR

Nathan Bessette, AIA, NCARB
SmithGroup

Statement:
I am interested in serving on the board to contribute strategic insight drawn from nearly two decades in architecture. My experience has reinforced the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and thoughtful stewardship in shaping environments and relationships throughout the region. I am committed to supporting the board’s strategic goals through sound judgment, collaboration, and a deep respect for the role of the built environment for the public.

Bio:
Nathan Bessette, AIA, brings nearly 20 years of experience working at leading firms across southeast Michigan, most recently with SmithGroup. His work spans higher education, cultural, and workplace projects, with a focus on creating environments that enhance public engagement and community value. Nathan holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in architecture from Lawrence Technological University (LTU). While at LTU, Nathan served on the AIAS board and enjoyed the positive impact during his term. Recognized for his hands-on approach, attention to detail, and commitment to mentorship, he believes that the collaboration between the owner, contractor, and design community of the built environment is the driving catalyst for civic betterment.

Nivin Boersma, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, CDT
GMB Architecture + Engineering

Statement:
I am writing to express my sincere interest in serving on the AIA Detroit Board of Directors. Having been actively involved in AIA Detroit through the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program—as both a 2023–2024 Scholar and 2024–2025 Co-Chair—and as an active member of the Building Codes & Regulations Committee, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact our organization has on the architectural community. I am eager to contribute to that continued progress.

With over ten years of professional experience in architecture, I have cultivated a passion for advancing leadership development, fostering mentorship, and promoting sustainable and inclusive design practices. I believe the AIA Detroit Board plays a critical role in empowering architects to lead with purpose, and I am motivated to help strengthen our chapter’s engagement with emerging professionals, community partners, and the public.

As a licensed architect and LEED Accredited Professional, I bring a deep understanding of the technical and human aspects of design. I am dedicated to fostering collaboration across disciplines and encouraging conversations that advance both innovation and responsibility in our work.

I would be honored to serve on the Board of Directors and help continue AIA Detroit’s mission to inspire, connect, and advocate for our profession and our city.

Bio:
Nivin Boersma is an Architect with GMB in Royal Oak, Michigan. With over a decade of experience in architecture, Nivin has contributed to a diverse range of projects including retail, mixed-use, educational, and civic developments. Her work reflects a commitment to innovative, sustainable, and community-centered design that enhances the built environment and the well-being of its users.

An active member of the American Institute of Architects, Nivin served as Co-Chair of the AIA Detroit Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) following her participation as a 2023–2024 Scholar. She currently continues her involvement as a member of the AIA Detroit Building Codes & Regulations Committee.

Passionate about professional growth and mentorship, Nivin strives to elevate the role of architects as leaders in shaping equitable and resilient communities. Her dedication to collaboration, education, and sustainability continues to guide her efforts within AIA Detroit and the broader architectural profession.

Darin Daguanno, AIA, LEED AP BD+C
SmithGroup

Statement:
A recipient of the AIA Michigan Young Architect of the Year Award, Darin has long been quietly active in AIA initiatives and is deeply invested in the future of the profession especially the mentorship and development of young professionals. His approach to architecture is collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking—qualities he would like to bring to the AIA Detroit leadership.

As a Detroit Director, Darin hopes to focus on:
• Empowering emerging professionals through mentorship and leadership development
• Strengthening member engagement across all career stages
• Advocating for design excellence and ethical practice in public and private sectors
• Promoting architecture’s role in shaping resilient, equitable communities

Darin believes that AIA Detroit must be a catalyst for innovation, advocacy, and connection—uniting architects to elevate the profession and enrich the city we serve.

Bio:
Darin Daguanno, AIA, is a Senior Principal at SmithGroup and has built a distinguished career leading complex healthcare, higher ed and civic projects that prioritize human-centered design, sustainability, and community impact. His design philosophy is shaped by a unique personal perspective and a belief that architecture must engage all the senses to be truly transformative.

With nearly three decades of experience, Darin has worked for several firms across SouthEast Michigan including SHW Group (now Stantec) and INFORM Studio and held leadership roles at SmithGroup and Ecco Design Group, where he also served as Owner. His portfolio spans academic medicine, behavioral health, campus master planning, and civic architecture, reflecting a deep commitment to serving diverse populations through thoughtful design.

Darin is also passionate about education and mentorship. He has served as an adjunct professor at both the University of Detroit Mercy and Lawrence Technological University, encouraging students to embrace experience as their greatest teacher. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, a Master of Architecture, and a Master of Engineering in Structural Engineering, all from the University of Michigan.

Cody Hansen, AIA, NCARB, LEED Green Associate, sUAS Pilot
Albert Kahn Associates, Inc.

Statement:
I would be honored to serve the architectural community and see this role as an opportunity to give back to the many individuals who dedicate their time, creativity, and passion to strengthening our profession. Throughout my career, I’ve benefited from the mentorship, advocacy, and collective knowledge fostered by the AIA and the incredible people who make it thrive. Their support has helped shape my path as an architect, and I believe now is the time for me to give back in a meaningful way by contributing my energy, organization, and commitment to advancing the mission of our local chapter and supporting the next generation of architects.

Bio:
Cody Hansen is a Project Architect at Albert Kahn Associates in Detroit, where for the past decade he has focused on projects that unite historic preservation with sustainable innovation. His experience spans adaptive reuse, LEED certified developments, and large-scale industrial facilities each guided by a deep commitment to environmental performance, resilience, and responsible design.

Passionate about advancing sustainability in the built environment, Cody has led initiatives in energy modeling, whole building life cycle analysis, and high-performance design strategies. While completing his Master of Architecture at Lawrence Technological University, he created and taught a series of LEED Green Associate courses to help students and emerging professionals gain a stronger understanding of sustainable design principles.

Cody continues to advocate for thoughtful, forward-looking architecture that reduces environmental impact while preserving the cultural and material legacy of the places we build. He became a licensed architect in April 2024.

Bruce E. Roberts AIA
Bruce Roberts Originals LLC

Statement:
I now turn my focus to furniture and accoutrements, creating both functional and nonfunctional works, including tables, chairs, cabinetry, and sculptures. I bring the full breadth of my experience to everything I undertake. I would like to be elected as a Detroit Director, to remain an active member of the AIA Detroit community, and to contribute to the continued advancement of our honorable profession as architects.

Bio:
I have thoroughly enjoyed a career in architecture, embracing all its intricacies. I have worked across eight time zones, both east and west, in various countries and multiple states. My experience ranges from being a solo practitioner to collaborating in firms of all sizes. I have engaged in every department of an architectural firm, and I have hands-on experience as a carpenter, both in rough and finish work, alongside masons and concrete crews. I can sketch, draw, and render, and I am skilled in using Grasshopper and BIM. I have appreciated the full spectrum of being an architect. The fluency of architecture remains a constant source of wonder and amazement for me. I love the discipline of architecture, the art it embodies, and its rich history. I enjoy working with the diverse characters who collectively shape the built environment. I am captivated by the endless advancement of our field; the horizon of knowledge and creativity never gets any closer; there is always more to explore.

ALLIED DIRECTOR

Elizabeth Barnes, Allied AIA
MillerKnoll

Statement:
I am honored to submit my candidacy for election to the AIA Detroit Board of Directors. With a career grounded in design strategy, sales enablement, and relationship leadership, I bring a unique combination of creative insight and business acumen—skills I am ready to deploy in service of this chapter and its members.

Over more than a decade, I have sharpened my ability to translate vision into impact: from interior design at Gensler, to market sales at MillerKnoll, to volunteer leadership with AIA Detroit and industry partners. I believe the built environment thrives when design excellence, collaboration, and strategic relationships converge.

My dedication to this chapter is not only professional but personal. I will bring energy, insight, and purpose to the Board, and look forward to collaborating with fellow Board members, committees, and the membership to drive impactful initiatives. I respectfully ask for your vote and support as we build a stronger future for our profession, together.

Thank you for your consideration.

Bio:
Elizabeth Barnes is a design-driven sales leader who thrives where creativity, strategy, and relationships meet. As a Channel Sales Executive at MillerKnoll, she partners with dealer sellers, designers, and project managers across the Great Lakes region to deliver innovative, high-performance environments.

With more than a decade of experience spanning design strategy, sales enablement, and client engagement, Elizabeth combines creative insight with business acumen to drive meaningful results. Her achievements and dedication make her a standout in both design and business, with a proven ability to build strong partnerships and shape the industry’s future.

A graduate of Kendall College of Art and Design, she currently serves as Allied Director for AIA Detroit and previously as VP of Industry Relations for IIDA Michigan. Known for her precision, professionalism, and collaborative spirit, Elizabeth brings passion and purpose to everything she does.

RSVP to the 2025 AIA Detroit Annual Meeting