City of Johnstown Director of Planning, Community, and Economic Development Attends AIA Women’s Leadership Summit, Receives Prestigious AIA PA Scholarship Award
Chicago, IL – October, 2024 – Nina Ndichu, the City of Johnstown’s Director of Planning, Community, and Economic Development, recently participated in the highly regarded American Institute of Architects (AIA) Women’s Leadership Summit, held in Chicago from October 7-11, 2024. This summit, a key event for women in architecture, planning, and design, provided an invaluable platform for leadership development, knowledge exchange, and a focus on creating equitable, sustainable communities.
As part of her engagement, Nina immersed herself in dynamic sessions that highlighted critical issues in urban planning and community development. The summit explored topics such as overcoming systemic barriers, advancing equity in design, and shaping the future of urban environments. These discussions are not only timely but pivotal for cities like Johnstown, where thoughtful, inclusive planning is essential for sustainable growth and improved quality of life.
Nina’s participation in the summit was complemented by the honor of receiving the prestigious AIA Pennsylvania (AIA PA) Scholarship Award. The award, which included a full scholarship, is presented to individuals demonstrating outstanding leadership and a dedication to the fields of architecture and urban planning. This recognition underscores Nina’s commitment to furthering Johnstown’s growth through innovative and equitable development strategies.
A Direct Benefit to the Johnstown Community
While Nina’s attendance and the award itself are significant achievements, the true impact lies in the knowledge and strategies she brings back to Johnstown. The Women’s Leadership Summit isn’t just an opportunity for personal growth; it equips leaders with the tools to create positive, lasting change in their communities.
At the summit, Nina connected with industry experts and peers, sharing insights on innovative solutions for urban development. She participated in workshops that focused on building sustainable communities, promoting inclusivity, and addressing the future of public spaces. These discussions are directly aligned with Johnstown’s goals of revitalizing neighborhoods, improving infrastructure, and fostering economic development in ways that benefit all residents.
The learning and strategies Nina gained will help inform and guide her work in Johnstown, particularly in areas like urban design, community engagement, and long-term planning. By integrating best practices from across the nation and promoting inclusive approaches, Nina is well-equipped to strengthen the city’s vision for a thriving, sustainable future. Her focus on making development work for everyone, regardless of background or socioeconomic status, is a key asset for Johnstown’s continued growth and revitalization.
Empowering a Diverse and Equitable Future
Nina’s award and experience at the summit highlight not only her personal accomplishments but also the city’s broader commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and equitable development. The statistics about women in the architecture field reflect both progress and the need for continued advocacy. Women now represent 26.8% of AIA members and 27% of licensed architects, with 49.9% of those achieving licensure being women. However, the statistics also reveal the ongoing need for greater representation, particularly among women of color. Only 17.9% of AIA members come from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, underscoring the importance of diversity in shaping the built environment.
It is clear that we must continue to advocate for diversity and inclusivity within this profession. The summit emphasized the critical role of mentoring and supporting one another to pave the way for future leaders, especially those from underrepresented groups. Nina’s experience reflects the growing movement to create a more inclusive and equitable future in architecture, planning, and community development.
By supporting Nina’s growth as a leader and champion of sustainable urban development, the City of Johnstown is investing in its own future—one that embraces innovation, collaboration, and community-driven progress. This aligns with the city’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity across all sectors, building a foundation for positive change for years to come.
The City of Johnstown is proud of Nina’s achievements and the continuing impact of women leaders in fields such as planning, architecture, and community development. The benefits of the insights and strategies learned at the Women’s Leadership Summit are already beginning to ripple throughout the city, ensuring a bright and inclusive future for the community.
