Welcome to the Gābl Media Continuing Education podcast feed! Each podcast is approved for continuing education credits.

From Detroit to the AIA Presidency: Kimberly Dowdell's Inspiring Journey  

AIA CES program ID: GMG.0024

Approved LUs: 1.25 LU|Elective

Prerequisites: None

Program level: Entry

Advance learner preparation: None

Architecture isn’t just about buildings—it’s about impact.

This powerful course follows Kimberly Dowdell’s rise from Detroit to national leadership as the first Black woman elected AIA President. Her story isn't just historic—it’s a blueprint for what purposeful design, bold advocacy, and unshakable resilience can do for the future of the profession.

Program Description

In this deeply personal and energizing episode, Kimberly Dowdell shares the moments that shaped her—from sketching houses as a child in Detroit to leading the American Institute of Architects on a national stage.

The conversation explores how she used education, service, and community-focused design as tools for transformation. From her formative years at Cornell and Harvard to her presidency at NOMA during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kimberly walks listeners through the milestones, mindsets, and mission that have defined her path.

Her story offers more than inspiration—it delivers a masterclass in leadership, equity, and the power of representation in reshaping the built environment.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

1. Identify the historical and systemic challenges faced by Black architects in the United States.
2. Analyze the leadership strategies Kimberly Dowdell employed to increase membership and engagement in NOMA.
3. Explain the interdisciplinary approaches needed to address urban health disparities through architecture.
4. Describe the significance of representation and mentorship in diversifying the field of architecture.

Who Should Take This Course

Perfect for architects, educators, students, and AEC professionals who:

• Want to understand the power of leadership and advocacy in architecture
• Believe design can be a catalyst for justice, inclusion, and systemic change
• Are seeking real-world examples of how representation reshapes the profession
• Are invested in mentoring, urban equity, and building healthier communities

This course is for those who don’t just want to build buildings—but a better profession and world.

Why It Matters

• Earn AIA CE credit while learning from one of the industry’s most groundbreaking leaders
• Gain insight into how community, design, and leadership intersect to drive systemic change
• Discover how personal purpose can fuel professional excellence and lasting legacy

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AIA CES Provider statement

Gābl Media is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 10024977. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES ([email protected] or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).

This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product.

AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.

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