AIA Detroit is pleased to introduce the 2026 Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Cohort. A special “Thank You” to our Co-Chairs, Sarah Doornbos and Megan Finley, for guiding this cohort, and our generous Program Sponsor, HOK + ROSSETTI!

The Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) is a year-long, immersive experience shaping the next generation of architectural leaders. Founded in 2013 in honor of visionary leader Christopher Kelley, the program brings together a select cohort of emerging professionals for a dynamic series of sessions focused on leadership, business acumen, and community impact.

More than just a curriculum, CKLDP is a living, evolving network—where participants not only learn but lead, collaborating to shape each session and mentoring future cohorts. Rooted in legacy and driven by innovation, the program empowers architects to define their future and the future of the profession.

GET TO KNOW THIS YEAR’S CKLDP SCHOLARS:

Fejiro Asidi
Albert Kahn Associates

Bio:

As a Junior Mechanical Engineer at Albert Kahn Associates, Fejiro Asidi blends technical rigor with a deep commitment to integrated practice and community advocacy. Since joining the firm, she has supported complex industrial projects while serving on the D&I committee, advocating for opportunities to foster professional growth and soft-skill development among her peers.

A proud Nigerian American and 2023 Graduate of Lawrence Technological University (master’s in architectural engineering), Fejiro’ s leadership philosophy was forged during her time with Theta Tau Professional Engineering Fraternity. As the first Black woman in Xi Beta Theta Tau’s 40-year history at Lawrence Tech, she served as a pivotal leader in professionalism and service. She believes that true leadership involves not only making one’s presence known but also advocating for others and creating spaces for collective success. This dedication is reflected in her volunteer work with elementary school students through CAYF & AKLF.  In her free time, she’s a digital artist, an avid reader, and loves to travel!

Connor Barbara
HKS, Inc.

Bio:
Connor Barbara is an emerging design professional specializing in healthcare environments, aided by a strong background in social justice and community-driven design. He completed both his undergraduate and graduate education at the School of Architecture and Community Development at the University of Detroit Mercy. Following graduation in 2022, Connor began work at HKS Detroit, where he contributes to projects across all phases, bringing strengths in interdisciplinary coordination, thoughtful problem-solving, and human-centered design approaches. Connor is recognized for his collaborative leadership style and his ability to step into challenging roles. In his free time, he enjoys exploring his passions of historic preservation and photography. Ultimately driven by curiosity, empathy, and a commitment to community impact, he aims to shape a more equitable, resilient built environment through his work.

Justin Farley
NBS Commercial Interiors

Bio:
Justin is an emerging architectural designer who has travelled all over the US and many countries with a background in construction, 3D Modeling, and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from LTU. He approaches design with a methodical, systems-driven mindset shaped by both academic training and hands-on making. He also has a background in digital fabrication, 3D printing, and product design that strengthens his ability to translate conceptual ideas into refined, buildable forms. Justin’s work is grounded in an understanding of building systems, environmental performance, and the experiential qualities of space. He brings an eye for proportion and detail, paired with a maker’s intuition for craft and iteration. Whether developing architectural concepts, fabricating original objects, or refining technical workflows, he is driven by curiosity, resilience, and a commitment to thoughtful, human-centered design. His long-term goal is to lead innovative, sustainable projects that elevate everyday environments.

Daria Guseinova
HOK + ROSSETTI

Bio:
I am an architectural designer and Associate AIA with a diverse professional background shaped by experience across different design environments and cultural contexts. These experiences have influenced my approach to architecture, encouraging me to balance analytical problem-solving with a strong awareness of how the built environment shapes everyday human experience.
In my work, I am particularly interested in collaborative design processes and the responsibility architects carry in shaping spaces that support community, identity, and collective memory. I see architecture as a form of leadership—one that fosters dialogue, empathy, and accountability within both the profession and the communities we serve.
I am passionate about expanding leadership opportunities for women in architecture and contributing to a more inclusive and supportive professional culture. Through continued professional development and engagement with Detroit’s design community, I hope to strengthen the role of architects as thoughtful advocates for both people and place.
Outside of practice, I enjoy exploring cities, studying urban environments, and doing sports, particularly swimming and pickleball.

Nandini Kaushik
HOK + ROSSETTI

Bio:
Nandini Kaushik is an Architectural Designer at Rossetti in Detroit with over a decade of experience working on projects across the United States and India. She has contributed to large-scale sports, mixed-use, and commercial developments, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams from early visioning through detailed documentation. Guided by curiosity and creativity, she enjoys transforming ambitious ideas into thoughtful, buildable spaces that foster connection and experience.
A licensed architect in India, Nandini has led residential and commercial projects from concept to construction, balancing the artistic and technical aspects of design. She has a strong interest in façade design, particularly the relationship between building envelope systems, material expression, and performance.
In her free time, she enjoys photography and exploring the visual arts, using light, form, and
composition to inspire her architectural perspective.

Angel Mangham
Studio Detroit

Bio:
Angel is the Director of Business Development and Marketing and an architectural designer at Studio Detroit. At SD, she works on commercial and civic projects, as well as building compliance for all projects. She also serves as the lead graphic designer and social media coordinator for NOMA Detroit. Angel gained an interest in architecture at a young age after noticing abandonment in her hometown, Flint, MI. She grew an appreciation for the entire design process and is dedicated to helping people through design. She values the smallest details and how it completes a space and its story. Her focus lies in preserving spaces and celebrating community.

Erica Muldoon
Ghafari Associates

Bio:
Erica Muldoon, AIA, NCARB, is a Project Architect and Assistant Manager-Architecture at Ghafari Associates. She holds a Master of Architecture, a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, and an Undergraduate Certification in BIM and Visual Communication from Lawrence Technological University. Erica also holds an Associate Degree in Applied Science – Architecture / Construction Technology from Henry Ford College.
With over a decade of experience, Erica’s portfolio encompasses a broad spectrum of project scopes and building types, including automotive, aviation, manufacturing, commercial, and healthcare facilities. Erica attributes much of a project’s success to the relationship cultivated between the project team and the client through quality interactions and the implementation of technology throughout the life of the project to maximize efficiency and enable interdisciplinary coordination and 3D visualization.
In her free time, Erica enjoys scuba diving with her husband, Mark; camping and hiking with her husband and their 2 dogs, Duke and Daisy; reading and volunteering with Bottle Babies, a local dog rescue.

Montserrat Palomino
HOK + ROSSETTI

Bio:
Montserrat Palomino is a designer at ROSSETTI and a graduate of the Illinois Institute of Technology, where she earned a Bachelor of Architecture with a minor in Urban Studies. Her diverse background has shaped a deep curiosity about how people experience and interact with the built environment. She believes architecture is an embodiment of people’s stories in space, creating environments that bring people together and foster moments of connection. Her approach centers on understanding the people who will inhabit space and ensuring their experiences remain at the forefront of the design process. Montserrat’s passions are rooted in a strong sense of community, essential both in life and in design.
Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and exploring cities to better understand how culture, community, and place intersect. Through architecture, she hopes to create spaces that leave lasting impressions on the people who gather within them.

Selina Rustico
Straub Pettitt Mann

Bio:
Selina Rustico is an Architectural Designer at Straub Pettitt Mann. She did a dual program with the University of Windsor and University of Detroit Mercy, which fused her passion for art and architecture. Her program earned her a Bachelor of Architecture and Science and a bachelor’s degree in fine arts.
Selina’s project sectors have included state, commercial, and residential jobs. Selina has a passion for the design and technical side of architecture. She strives to build a better community using her architectural skills.
In addition to her architecture career, Selina enjoys crocheting and photography, where she has had her works published multiple times in the University of Detroit Mercy’s (SIC) student arts journal.
Selina is eager to learn and expand her knowledge of architecture and design.

Asia Williams
HOK + ROSSETTI

Bio:
Asia Williams, known professionally as AZI THE DZNR, is a Detroit-based architectural designer, community developer, culture builder, and content creator working at ROSSETTI. She holds dual master’s degrees in architecture and Community Development from the University of Detroit Mercy. Her work explores the intersection of design, culture, and space, with a focus on how architecture can shape identity, representation, and opportunity within communities.
Asia is also the founder of SHE DZNS, an initiative dedicated to increasing representation of Black women in architecture and the broader design industry while inspiring young girls to pursue design as a creative and professional pathway. Through both her platform and digital content, she shares insights on architecture, culture, and the creative process while working to make architecture more visible, accessible, and engaging for the next generation of designers and leaders.

Chang Zong
SmithGroup

Bio:
Chang Zong is a Licensed Architect and Medical/Dental Planner with over eight years of experience designing healthcare and dental education environments. At SmithGroup, she leads clinical programming, workflow optimization, and interdisciplinary coordination for major academic institutions, including the University of Florida, the Dental College of Georgia, and the University of Michigan. Her work blends technical rigor with a human-centered approach to improve patient experience and operational efficiency.
Outside project work, Chang invests in mentorship and community-building — supporting students through Exploring Post, organizing Earth Week initiatives, and fostering workplace wellness. She is also advancing AI-driven tools to streamline planning workflows and enhance team performance. Chang holds degrees from Harvard GSD and Tsinghua University and is committed to shaping thoughtful, innovative healthcare design.