AIA South Dakota Annual Convention

The AIA South Dakota Annual Convention, held at the Sioux Falls Convention Center, aims to bring together architects and design professionals to celebrate architecture and foster discussions on important industry topics. This year's event features prominent figures including 2026 AIA President Illya Azaroff, FAIA, who will deliver a keynote address focusing on the evolving role of architects in addressing community challenges and promoting resilience in design. Azaroff, an expert in disaster risk reduction and regenerative design, emphasizes the need for architects to lead in creating sustainable solutions for future generations.The convention also showcases a variety of sessions, including presentations from Joshua Hemberger, AIA, LEED AP, and Leah Rudolphi, AIA, who will share insights from their firm, Substance Architecture, on their transition and the lessons learned over two decades of practice. Attendees can look forward to panel discussions featuring school superintendents from across South Dakota, addressing the challenges and opportunities in educational facility design. Notable speakers include Garrett Peters, AIA, ACHA, MBAH, discussing the intricacies of master planning within healthcare environments, and Gene Fennell, AIA, who will present on the preservation of historical sites like the Battery Point Lighthouse.The convention is also set to recognize architectural excellence through the AIA SD Design Awards, where a jury panel will present winning projects that exemplify outstanding design and innovation. Attendees are encouraged to engage with exhibitors through the newly introduced Exhibit Hall Plingo game, offering chances to win prizes while networking with industry leaders. This yearly gathering not only highlights the achievements of architects in South Dakota but also fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing among professionals, ensuring continued growth and improvement in the architectural landscape.