Lakisha Ann Woods

Lakisha Ann Woods. An accomplished executive and association leader, she is best known for her transformative tenure as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Institute of Architects. With a background in strategic communications and marketing, Woods has held significant leadership roles at prominent organizations including the National Association of Home Builders and the U.S. Green Building Council. Her career is distinguished by a focus on advocacy, equity within the built environment, and strengthening the business value of design professionals.

Early life and education

Woods was raised in Prince George's County, Maryland, and pursued her higher education at the University of Maryland, College Park. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, laying the foundation for her expertise in strategic messaging and stakeholder engagement. Her academic training provided a critical framework for her future work in influencing policy and public perception within complex industries like construction and design.

Career

Woods began her professional journey in communications roles before ascending to senior positions at major industry associations. She served as the Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for the National Association of Home Builders in Washington, D.C., where she managed global brand strategy and public affairs. Prior to that, she held the role of Vice President of Marketing for the U.S. Green Building Council, championing the proliferation of the LEED green building program. Her executive experience also includes leadership at the National Institute of Building Sciences, where she contributed to advancing building science and technology.

Leadership at the American Institute of Architects

Appointed in January 2022, Woods became the first person of color to serve as the President and CEO of the American Institute of Architects, one of the most influential design organizations globally. Her leadership has been marked by a strong emphasis on climate action, equitable practice, and enhancing the architect's role in societal challenges. Under her guidance, the AIA has intensified its advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill for policies supporting resilient infrastructure and small business vitality. She has also overseen strategic partnerships with entities like the United States Department of Energy and reinforced the institute's commitment through the AIA Code of Ethics.

Board memberships and affiliations

Woods lends her strategic insight to several key industry and standards bodies. She has served on the Board of Directors for the National Institute of Building Sciences, contributing to the development of the National BIM Standard-United States. She is also a board member for the International Code Council, helping to shape modern building safety codes. Her affiliations extend to participation in the CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion pledge and advisory roles with educational institutions focused on the built environment.

Awards and recognition

Throughout her career, Woods has received numerous accolades for her leadership and innovation. She was honored with a Nielsen Norman Group UX Award for outstanding digital design in association management. She has been consistently recognized as one of the most influential leaders in the building and design sector by publications like Engineering News-Record. Her work in promoting diversity and sustainable development has been celebrated by various civic and professional organizations across the United States.

Category:American chief executives Category:American Institute of Architects people Category:University of Maryland, College Park alumni