A Letter From 2026 AIA Rochester President Kory Hunsinger, AIA

Kory Hunsinger, AIA

Happy New Year everyone!  As we flip the calendar to 2026, I’d be remiss if I didn’t thank the 2025 AIA Rochester Board, and its various committees, for their hard work and dedication this past year.  I’d also like to thank the Strategic Planning Committee for their efforts drafting the 2025 Strategic Plan.  It was an intense and energizing task, and I am excited to work with this year’s Board to begin implementing this plan, focusing on the following areas:

Advocating for Our Profession

Architecture shapes communities and impacts lives. We will continue to champion policies that protect the integrity of our profession, promote sustainable and equitable design, and advance the value architects bring to the community. Through legislative engagement and public outreach, we’ll ensure architects remain at the forefront of conversations about climate action, housing, and community development

Connecting and Collaborating

We will create more opportunities for connection—through chapter events, programs, and digital platforms that bring members together. Design thrives on the power of connection. By sharing ideas and collaborating, we amplify our collective impact and shape the future of architecture.

Investing in Your Professional Journey

We are committed to providing resources to help you thrive in every stage of your career. From mentorship and networking to continuing education and leadership development, our goal is to ensure that every member feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed.

Realigning Board Roles

We’ll examine board roles to ensure they align with our strategic priorities to better serve the membership. We will strive to make board positions both attractive and achievable by creating clear pathways for involvement, offering mentorship, and ensuring every member sees leadership as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

These are bold goals, but I truly believe the 2026 AIA Rochester Board, and the membership at large, is up for the challenge.  This implementation is not meant to happen overnight nor be followed to the letter, but over the next five years with permission to reevaluate along the way.  I look forward to working with all of you to make this plan a reality.

Sincerely,

Kory Hunsinger, AIA

2026 AIA Rochester Board President