2026 AIA Louisiana Conference Schedule

BIO:

Kimberly Dowdell is an award-winning architect and building industry leader. In her current role as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships with Amrize, she is working to advance innovation in the delivery of critical infrastructure and building solutions in all construction markets, from foundation to rooftop.In 2024, Dowdell served as the 100th President of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), which was preceded by her 2019-2020 term as President of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA). Her career has included leadership in a global design firm, public service, academia, real estate development, project management, and distinguished service to various organizations. In 2005, Dowdell co-founded the Social, Economic, Environmental Design (SEED) Network. She is also a LEED Accredited Professional. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University. Her overarching mission is to improve the quality of people's lives, by design.

DESCRIPTION:

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BIO Chandra Wright, a 1995 graduate of the University of Alabama School of Law, moved to Gulf Shores in 2008 to practice law and spend more time SCUBA diving. The 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill motivated her to leave her law practice in search of work in environmental stewardship. That search led her to become the Nature Tourism Specialist for the Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium and Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. In that role, Chandra worked with nature-based tourism operators in coastal Alabama and coastal Mississippi to help them be financially successful while also being good stewards of the natural resources their livelihoods depend upon. That experience made her a natural fit to oversee the environmental sustainability efforts and educational initiatives at the Lodge, Interpretive Center and Learning Campus at Gulf State Park. Chandra also serves on the board of several environmental nonprofits and volunteers with Alabama’s sea turtle program.

Description: 

This session will introduce you to the unique resiliency and sustainability features incorporated into the Lodge at Gulf State Park. Part presentation and part walking tour, you will learn how the design of the buildings and landscapes mediates the demands of hospitality, an ecologically sensitive site, and the force of coastal storms. You will also be introduced to the Gulf State Park Master Plan and its influence on the Lodge. Following the destruction of the original Lodge by Hurricane Ivan, this state project envisioned Gulf State Park as an international benchmark for environmental and economic sustainability, demonstrating best practices in outdoor recreation, education, and hospitable accommodations. The Lodge is one of five projects developed in support of that goal. It is also the first hospitality project in the world to achieve SITES Platinum, LEED Gold, and FORTIFIED certifications. Following a brief presentation, participants will tour the facility, including operational areas not normally seen by the public.

BIO: 
Barbara Sable is a 39-year insurance industry veteran who provides face-to-face seminars, webinars, contract reviews, policy analysis, and insurance program guidance to the clients of FRP Professional Risk.  Prior to joining the agency in 2020, Barb served as an executive in two US-domiciled insurance companies and as an equity partner in a national insurance brokerage serving construction industry clients of all sizes.

Brooke Bernal serves on the adjunct faculty of the LSU Law Center and teaches a course in trial advocacy and evidence. Since joining the firm, Brooke’s clients have included accountants, architects, engineers, surveyors, attorneys, small business owners, government agencies and condominium associations.  She frequently represents accountants in the accountant review panel process, which is unique to Louisiana. Brooke was named as a “Rising Star” by Louisiana Super Lawyers in 2015 and 2016. She is also fluent in Spanish. Brooke is a frequent speaker on various topics and legal issues and is the co-author of multiple published works.

DESCRIPTION: 
Join legal and insurance representatives for a one-hour course covering project case studies involving legal issues as a way of better understanding potential project issues. This course will use case studies and examples from actual legal cases to discuss mistakes in design and construction, how they may have occurred, related design issues, construction mishaps, and how to avoid these situations.

BIO: 
Paul Herbert provides planning, programming, architectural design, and exhibit design leadership for a diverse collection of projects at CambridgeSeven. Focusing on issues that impact the visitor experience, his passion is found in the educational aspects of our museum, aquarium, and nature center projects. His educational focus has also made him an integral member of several academic projects at Northeastern University, UMass Lowell, and Westfield State University. Paul has been a member of the Faculty at the Boston Architectural College for the last 15 years.

BIO: 
Chris Dempsey’s career has spanned the public, private, and non-profit sectors. As a Co-Founder of Speck Dempsey with Jeff Speck, author of the best-selling book Walkable City, Chris works with municipalities and private developers to design and build walkable places.

Chris previously served as Assistant Secretary of Transportation for Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, where he co-founded the nation-leading MassDOT open-data program. Chris has worked as a consultant with Bain & Co., and led North American business development for Masabi, a mobile-ticketing company whose customers include the MBTA, New York MTA, Los Angeles Metrolink, and other large transit agencies. From 2017 to 2021 he led Massachusetts’ largest transportation advocacy coalition, Transportation for Massachusetts, working to advance civic conversations on sustainable transportation policy and investments. Chris has represented his hometown, Brookline, as an elected Town Meeting Member since 2012. He lives with his wife, Anna, and daughter, Sarina, and has never owned a car.

BIO: 
Jackie Dadakis is the Chief Executive Officer of Green Coast Enterprises, a real estate development and green building services company based in New Orleans, LA. Jackie joined the company in 2013 to launch GCE Services, a consulting firm that provides energy efficiency services to property owners, municipalities, and utilities. Jackie serves as the Technical Chair of the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council and stewarded the state’s transition from the 2009 IECC to the 2021 IECC. Jackie holds a Masters in City Planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a B.A. in Economics from Claremont McKenna College.

DESCRIPTION:
This panel will discuss shaping growth at different scales, with a particular focus on walkable, infill development that supports communities whose population is increasing and who want to avoid inefficient sprawl. Panelist Chris Dempsey will share examples of communities that are shaping growth at the regional and downtown-wide levels, supporting walkable, mixed use development in greenfields and infill development in existing street networks. Jackie will highlight the work Green Coast Enterprises did to create a national historic district in downtown Lake Charles to complement the main street reinvestment the city made along Ryan Street. And Paul will concentrate on the next smallest scale—the individual building level—exploring how single projects, when aligned with a broader vision, can create powerful ripple effects on a larger scale.

BIO: Roger Husser is a native of Husser, Louisiana.  Roger graduated from Loranger High School in 1988 and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering in 1993 from the University of Southwestern Louisiana and was married in the same year.  In 1994, he became employed at LSU in the Biological Engineering Department as a Research Associate in the areas of ergonomic workspace design and alternative energy research and also began work towards a master’s degree.  After four years as a Research Associate in the Biological Engineering Department, Roger accepted a position in the LSU Agricultural Center Facilities Planning Department as a Project Manager in 1998.  In December of 2000, Roger obtained a Master of Science in Biological and Agricultural Engineering from LSU.  In 2001, he became licensed in both Civil Engineering and in Agricultural Engineering and became Director of LSU AgCenter Facilities Planning where he was responsible for the LSU AgCenter facilities statewide.  After serving in this capacity for eleven years, he accepted the position of Director of LSU Planning, Design and Construction in 2012.  In 2016, Roger was promoted to Assistant Vice President for LSU Planning, Design and Construction and had the responsibility for a $1 billion capital development portfolio including all long term physical planning, development and construction efforts on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge.  In 2023, Roger accepted the Director of Facility Planning and Control, administering the multi-billion dollar Capital Outlay Act for the State of Louisiana.  Roger currently resides in Husser, Louisiana, has been happily married for 30 years and is an active member of Loranger Legacy Church.

Lawrence “Joe” Delaune, Jr., Architect, CBO  is the Chief Architect for the Louisiana State Fire Marshal and Administrator of the Engineering Section of the office.  This Section consists of more than 30 professionals who administer the codes, rules and laws that apply to all new and renovated commercial structures in the state, and who provide training and consultation to licensed architects, engineers, contractors, and commercial building owners.  Mr. Delaune initiates special projects such as Information Technology advancements, and assists with legislative changes that enhance life safety and protection of property.  Delaune has been a licensed architect for 28 years and a certified building official for 16 years.  After many years in the construction industry and practicing architecture with private firms in the states of Florida and Louisiana, Mr. Delaune has devoted his career to public safety and fire prevention for the State of Louisiana.  Mr. Delaune has been with the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal for 24 years. 

Matthew Baker, Architect serves as Director of the Office of Facility Planning and Control (FP&C) within the Division of Administration for the State of Louisiana, Matt Baker is responsible for overseeing the state’s capital outlay budget and execution process. This includes the preparation of the Capital Outlay Bill (HB2), the Omnibus Bond Bill (HB3), and the Five-Year Capital Outlay Program. With over 20 years of professional experience, Matt is currently in his eighth year of service in state government, where he has held the roles of Project Manager and Assistant Director. Prior to joining the public sector, he worked with several architectural firms across Louisiana, contributing to a wide range of projects in master planning, commercial, industrial, religious, medical, athletic, and educational sectors. Matt holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies and a Master of Architecture from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He is a licensed architect in the State of Louisiana.

DESCRIPTION:

In this engaging and informative session, "State of the State," attendees will gain insights into the current landscape of architecture and construction within Louisiana. The session will feature a distinguished panel comprising Chief Bryan Adams, the Louisiana State Fire Marshall; Roger Husser from Louisiana Facility Planning and Control; and Mark Joiner representing the Louisiana Uniform Construction Code Council (LSU CCC). These experts will share their experiences, challenges, and visions for the future, providing a comprehensive overview of the regulatory, planning, and technological aspects that shape the state's architectural and construction environment.

BIO

"Akhil Hemanth, Assoc. AIA is an AI Technology Architect is redefining how the AEC industry adopts and applies artificial intelligence. At Newcomb & Boyd, he leads the integration of artificial intelligence into engineering workflows, bridging design expertise with advanced computation to fundamentally change how firms operate. He also serves as Education Chair for the AIA Aspire Conference, shaping thought leadership on innovation and digital practice, Akhil builds what he practices. He developed the 4 E’s of AI Adoption framework, created multi-agent knowledge systems, and engineered automated tools that improve efficiency and decision-making in real AEC workflows. His perspective has been featured in Architect Magazine, reflecting his role in shaping how the industry approaches emerging technology. His work has taken him to stages across the industry—Autodesk University, AIA Aspire, Neo4j Summit, and Design Intelligence Futures Council, where he translates complex AI concepts into practical strategies firms can actually implement.

DESCRIPTION:
Port Wonder is a state-of-the-art lakefront facility that brings together the Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana and the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Nature & Science Center. Spanning over 25,000 square feet, the facility offers an immersive blend of interactive exhibits in science, health, technology, and local culture, designed to spark curiosity, creativity and wonder in all ages. Designed to echo the waterway of Southwest Louisiana, Port Wonder offers a unique mix of education, recreation, and hands-on discovery.

BIO:

DESCRIPTION:

Adjacent to the Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion, at the east pedestrian bridge, the Interpretive Center is the gateway to and coastal classroom for everything the Park has to offer, and is Alabama’s most environmentally-friendly building, pursing LEED Platinum and full Living Building Challenge certification (the world’s most rigorous building standard – there are less than 30 in the world!). Come learn how the facility produces its own electricity and water, and explore the park’s nine ecosystems through a variety of family-friendly interactive exhibits.

Optional Follow-up Coaching can be schedule for participants to prepare for an upcoming business development conversation, and to make the most of that opportunity.

BIO:

Frank Stasiowski FAIA is an advisor to leaders at many of the world’s top architecture and engineering firms. As an speaker to audiences from five to more than 5,000, Frank is well-known for his data-driven look into the future of the business of architecture. His energetic and down-to-earth speaking style always draws rave reviews. He is a licensed architect with a degree from the Rhode Island School of Design and a MBA from Bryant University.

DESCRIPTION:

After attending this session, small firm Principals will have an action plan for driving improved financial performance without adding personnel, merging, or entering unfamiliar markets. They learn the essential mindset shifts that foster nimble entrepreneurial decision making and increase profitability.

1. Transition from being a service provider to a success partner for clients
2. Increase profitability without adding staff or merging with another firm
3. Instill leadership characteristics in your firm and target your next leaders, regardless of your organization's size
4. Replace the emphasis in your firm on quality drawings and good communication (which is what every client expects from every A/E/C provider) with an emphasis on anticipating needs.

Robert (Bobby) Boudreaux, AIA, is a licensed architect with over 30 years of experience in architecture, design management, and large-scale program delivery. He currently serves as Design Management Lead for Jacobs on the U.S. Virgin Islands Rebuild Program, a multi‑billion‑dollar disaster recovery initiative focused on resilient, sustainable infrastructure across education, healthcare, and public facilities. Throughout his career, Bobby has led multidisciplinary teams on complex projects, including his prior role as Assistant Director with Louisiana Facility Planning & Control, where he oversaw capital outlay programs and major public projects statewide. A former AIA Baton Rouge President, he is deeply engaged in advancing resilient design and sustainable practices across coastal and disaster‑prone regions, with a focus on solutions directly applicable to Louisiana’s unique environmental challenges.

 

Kevin Ferguson is an Education Sector Lead at Jacobs where he serves as the executive manager of the $3.5B Capital Improvement Program for the Virgin Islands Department of Education through the USVI Office of Disaster Recovery overseeing funding, design, design-build, and construction of educational facilities outlined in the Master Plan for Post Irma and Maria recovery.  He is a 1995 graduate from the Tulane School of Engineering with a BSME.  Kevin has worked in Program and Construction Management for the last 30+ years in multiple market segments across the country including aviation, education, municipal, and religious.

Dr. Louis Rosado-Viana is an accomplished environmental engineer and senior project manager with over 30 years of experience delivering complex infrastructure and environmental compliance programs across federal, municipal, and private sectors. He currently serves as Environmental Lead for Jacobs’ Super Program Management Office supporting the U.S. Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery, where he directs multidisciplinary environmental reviews, integrates regulatory compliance into design and construction, and supports federal decision-making processes while maintaining rigorous project schedules. His expertise includes NEPA implementation, FEMA Public Assistance programs, Environmental Assessments, and environmental due diligence, including Phase I–III Environmental Site Assessments and compliance documentation. Dr. Rosado-Viana also brings deep technical knowledge in wastewater and potable water treatment systems, biological processes, and environmental permitting under major federal regulations. In addition to his professional work, he serves as an adjunct professor in Puerto Rico, teaching courses in air quality, water treatment, sustainability, and waste management. He holds a PhD in Environmental Engineering and Earth Applied Sciences from Columbia University, along with advanced degrees spanning environmental science, engineering, biology, and chemistry, and is recognized for his leadership at the intersection of sustainability, resilience, and infrastructure delivery.

 

Kevin Chenevert, AIA, is a licensed Louisiana architect with nearly 30 years of experience in architectural design, construction administration, and large-scale program and project management. He currently serves as Senior Project Manager for Jacobs on the U.S. Virgin Islands Rebuild Program. He has served in traditional architectural practice, design-build delivery, and as an owner’s representative, managing complex public-sector projects including K–12 schools, higher education facilities, parks, and cultural institutions. Kevin has led and reviewed work totaling hundreds of millions of dollars in construction value, with deep expertise in disaster recovery, FEMA-funded programs, code and design review, construction manager at risk delivery, and development of design standards and educational specifications. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Louisiana State University and brings a collaborative, detail-oriented approach to delivering resilient, high-quality facilities.

Lake Charles Historic Downtown Crawl

Discover the charm and history of Lake Charles with our Historic Downtown Crawl! This event invites you to explore the vibrant heart of the city, where history meets modernity. Stroll through picturesque streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings, each telling a story of the past. Visit iconic sites, savor delicious cuisine from local restaurants, sharing a taste of Lake Charles' culinary heritage.

** Only those registered with a ticket will receive continuing education credit.

Sponsored in part by:

More info to come!

BIO:

Raised between southern California and central Louisiana, Paula studied Architecture at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She began her career in Los Angeles and in the following years built experience designing single-family and mixed-use developments in New Orleans. Since joining the firm in 2001, Paula has utilized her expertise in managing intricate projects to guide the firm in accomplishing significant-scale work successfully. She provides excellent internal leadership by identifying firm needs and implementing plans to address them, mentoring young designers, and contributing significantly to the strength of project execution and design. She became a partner in 2009 and has helped to grow the firm’s project portfolio and evolve the firm culture. Beyond the firm, she is an engaged member of the professional community, serving as Past- President of the New Orleans Chapter of the American Institute of Architect (AIA), cofounder of the member of Women In Architecture Committee (WIA), board member of DOCOMOMO, and a founding Board member of the New Orleans Architecture Foundation (NOAF). She is currently on the Tulane School of Architecture Advisory Board and serves on the Gretna Historic District Committee, where she spearheaded the development of a Historic Districts Design Guidelines Book for the City of Gretna.

Mr. Morris is the President of Holly & Smith Architects and has served as the Founder and Director of the New Orleans Studio for over 14 years. As a licensed professional with more than 30 years of diverse experience, Kevin’s tenacity has led the team to successfully complete many technically sophisticated and logistically challenging projects throughout southeast Louisiana. Rarely content to sit still, Kevin is actively involved in numerous facets of a project’s development, including programming, planning, design, production, and construction administration. He is passionate about design and deeply committed to seeking simple, creative, and elegant solutions. Within the profession, Mr. Morris is actively involved in the AIA, having previously served in numerous state and local leadership positions. He maintains NCARB certification as well as various technical certifications through the Construction Specifications Institute. As a faith-driven individual, Kevin is a member of Legatus New Orleans and is actively involved with his local church parish, where he serves weekly in the music ministry and participates in special events. He is also a member of The Green Project of New Orleans and currently serves on its Board of Directors.

DESCRIPTION:  
This presentation will focus on approaches to climate adaptation and resilience that starts with an understanding of environmental dynamics, and then explores ways to make design and planning better respond to these changes over time. Case studies will focus on the greening of infrastructure, the hybridization of flood control in the public realm, and the multiplicity of ways in which city-making can integrate techniques for reducing urban heat, increasing biodiversity, and designing with water--all with the goal of creating beautiful public places for people.

Bryan has led two award-winning architecture and design programs for high school students, one through the Arts Council of New Orleans and the other through the National Organization of Minority Architects. Bryan is the 2025-26 National NOMA President. Bryan has received numerous awards and fellowships, including the 2018 Fast Company Most Creative People in Business, the Architectural League’s Emerging Voices award in 2019, the 2021 Cooper Hewitt National Design Award, the 2023 United States Artist Fellow, and the recipient of the 2025 AIA Whitney M Young Jr Award, elevating him to the AIA College of Fellows.

DESCRIPTION: 
This session will introduce you to the unique resiliency and sustainability features incorporated into the Lodge at Gulf State Park. Part presentation and part walking tour, you will learn how the design of the buildings and landscapes mediates the demands of hospitality, an ecologically sensitive
site, and the force of coastal storms. You will also be introduced to the Gulf State Park Master Plan and its influence on the Lodge. Following the destruction of the original Lodge by Hurricane Ivan, this state project responded with a vision of Gulf State Park as an international benchmark of environmental and economic sustainability demonstrating best practices for outdoor recreation, education, and hospitable accommodations. The Lodge is one of five projects developed in support of that goal. It is also the first hospitality project in the world to achieve SITES Platinum, LEED Gold, and FORTIFIED certifications. Following a brief presentation, participants will tour the facility including operational areas not normally seen by the public.