The DIA is an active chapter, and this is testament to our committed team of council members. I hope to strengthen further our professional community through our engaging programme of events. The DIA chapter area is progressive and dynamic, constantly growing and developing to meet the needs of it communities. I look forward to yet again celebrating the exemplary projects that the DIA chapter delivers at the awards later this year.

My strong links with academia and practice put me in a unique position to help bridge the gap between studying and practicing. The proposed changes to the ARB academic and practical outcomes, alongside a proposed mandatory mentorship requirement for all registered architects, means changes are a foot. I hope to support practices, chapter members and emerging architects to navigate these changes.

My principal aim is to represent our chapter members on the issues that are important to them and to advocate at both chapter and national level for the DIA. I will work alongside our enthusiastic and dedicated council members to achieve this.

I am excited to see what the next two years will bring!

Jenni Shanks

DIA President