Kelli Glasgow, associate principal at DIGroup Architecture (DIG), has been officially sworn in as the 2026 president of AIA Newark & Suburban Architects (AIANS). Representing more than 600 members, AIANS is the largest local segment of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in New Jersey.
Glasgow was installed during the chapter’s Annual Presidents’ Celebration at The Highlawn in West Orange, succeeding outgoing 2025 President Lisa Walzer.
Glasgow’s presidency is defined by a commitment to elevating the role of architects as civic leaders and community advocates. Her platform is built upon three strategic pillars:
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Student Membership & Access: Partnering with schools to engage students early and create attainable pathways into the profession.
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Public Awareness: Educating the community on how architecture directly impacts quality of life, sustainability, and equity.
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Member Engagement: Fostering a supportive, inclusive internal community through mentorship and collaborative leadership.
“Architects are uniquely positioned to lead—whether in classrooms, communities, or civic conversations,” Glasgow said. “My goal is to help the public better understand the value architects bring to everyday life.”
At DIGroup Architecture, Glasgow has been a driving force behind the firm’s Architecture for Change mission. She pioneered internal initiatives like “Toolbox Lunch Box” sessions for junior staff and led the firm to earn EPiC Firm status from AIA New Jersey for its commitment to licensure support and career advancement.
Alongside Glasgow, the 2026 Board of Trustees was installed to lead the chapter:
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President: Kelli Glasgow, AIA (DIGroup Architecture)
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President-Elect: Marvin Clawson, AIA (Clawson Architects)
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Vice President: Dana Napurano, AIA (Hofmann Design Build)
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Secretary: Javier Fuentes, AIA (Javier Fuentes Architecture)
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Treasurer: Jonathan Alexander Terrero, AIA (Unicus Architecture and Design)
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Past President: Lisa Walzer, AIA (Walzer Architecture)
Glasgow’s first major initiative will take place during Architecture Week 2026, where she will lead a mentorship program with Newark’s newly opened Architecture and Interior Design High School.
