Jason C. Winters, AIA, 2008 President of AIA Chesapeake Bay

In 2001, some fortunate circumstances brought me to live and work in Annapolis, Maryland. Coming fresh from graduate school, the Chesapeake Bay Chapter was my first substantial exposure to the AIA as a professional organization. I immediately discovered a network of working professionals that shared common interests in the practice of architecture. In hindsight, I am thankful that many of those professionals have become close friends.

Becoming actively involved in AIA chapter leadership was an easy decision for me as past and present board members consistently exemplify the qualities of positive role models not only for architects but also the community at large. These are individuals that I hope to emulate in my service as chapter president during the course of this year. I will make every effort to continue their excellence and maintain their positive energy in the spirit of years past.

Last year, the chapter underwent major changes in hopes to improve the quality and content of services to its members. We will work hard to continue to strengthen support from our organization at the local level. In that capacity, we are fortunate to have such a strong and willing board in 2008.

I would like to invite all members and affiliates to our monthly chapter events which take place within our region and offer an excellent opportunity to obtain continuing education units. In addition, we look forward to our special annual events such as the AIACBC Crab Feast in September, The Design Awards Program, and our year end Design Gala.

In closing, I would like to thank our past president Steven Kahle for helping to lay the foundation for our chapter to improve and grow through the course of last year. Everyone on the board volunteered an extraordinary amount of time and we hope to continue the success forged through last year's model. Finally, I invite all members of our organization to actively participate in our chapter in whatever capacity possible. Please feel free to contact me at any point through the course of the year to discuss any suggestions or concerns regarding the Chesapeake Bay Chapter. I look forward to meeting each and every one of our members, and thank you for your support in 2008.