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Throughout history, architects have employed the octagon as a geometric symbol of transition, renewal, and rebirth. As we move forward in 2025, I’m excited to begin my term as president of the Architects Foundation. To prepare for the year, our Board of Directors and staff gathered for a leadership retreat. We conducted a review of our respective roles, our strategic plan, and annual work plans for the organization. Together, we are shaping a new future for the Foundation by implementing a strategic plan which emphasizes growth in capacity, leveraging partnerships, and building a platform for transformative engagement. We are counting on your help, so that we can do more to help others!

I’m an architect, planner, and a consultant. At its core, my work in our firm’s cities and places practice exists at the intersection of user experience, climate change, and technological innovation. This means defining problems, developing solutions, and creating places where people can thrive and do their best work. Being a volunteer leader at Architects Foundation is a natural extension of my professional work because it provides me with an opportunity to be an advocate for the next generation of leaders in our profession, for the empowerment of communities seeking to determine their future, and to serve as a steward for the built treasure that is The Octagon.

Join us as we lean forward into the theme of “Building on a Strong Foundation.” During this year, we will continue to share stories that reveal the impact of our work. In addition, we will spotlight other Architects Foundation volunteer leaders and dedicated professional staff. First up is our newest Board Member, Caroline Fitzgerald, PE.

Caroline leads Northeast Client Relations for RMF Engineering in Boston. As a structural engineer, Caroline has delivered complex projects and has a passion for design. Caroline has been active in leadership of the Professional Women in Construction and the Boston Society of Architects. She is a graduate of Tufts University, have earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, magna cum laude.

As the Architects Foundation moves forward in the new year, let us continue to build on a strong foundation. Let us continue to work with enthusiasm and deliberate speed on our own transitions and to support those of the scholars and communities that we serve. Finally, let us commit to the promise of renewal and rebirth as represented by the geometry of our home at The Octagon.

Dan Kirby, FAIA, FAICP
President