Shaping architecture
statewide
AIA Georgia is governed by a 13-person board that includes elected officers and directors. The board also oversees the administration, annual budget, programming, and local and state advocacy.
Meet the candidates running for AIA Georgia’s elective offices.
President-elect
Chris Welty, AIA
Secretary
Carissa Oyedele, AIA
At-Large Director
Simon Martinez, AIA
At-Large Director
Heather Potts Lang, AIA
At-Large Director
Chloe Newton, Assoc. AIA
State Associate Representative
Toyin Olurebi, Assoc. AIA
State Associate Representative
Christopher Tromp, Assoc. AIA
Chris Welty, AIA
Desired Position: President-elect
Biography: Chris Welty is a Professor of Architecture at Kennesaw State University in the College of Architecture and Construction Management and serves as the Department of Architecture Profession Program Sequence coordinator and the KSU Architect Licensing Advisor for the National Council of Architectural Registration Board.
Chris has taught within the department since 2002, serving in many roles including the Professional Program Coordinator and the Portfolio Review Coordinator. He has taught all levels, from freshman to thesis and held a variety of coordinator roles including the second year studio sequence, the design communication sequence, and the thesis sequence. Prior to the merger with Kennesaw State University, SPSU honored him with an Outstanding Faculty Award for 2014 and named him 2014 -15 “Teacher of the Year”. His pedagogical interests center on integration of digital technologies and the art-of-craft focused on the notion of making. He has been awarded several Focus Studio appointments that converged on topics of light, materials and materiality through explorations with Design-Build. In Fall 2014, his topic “Immersion and Interaction, a case for gamification” was selected for a fifth-year Focus Studio. In this studio Chris and his students are continuing a collaboration endeavor started with the SPSU Gaming Department, exploring the role of game techniques in understanding and communicating architectural ideas.
When not teaching Chris heads his small multimedia design firm, weltyworld, which specializes in the creation of spatial experiences in a virtual computer environment. His firm focuses on visualization, architectural animations and web development. This expertise has led to array of clients from architects and builders to developers and corporate owners.
Statement of Qualifications: I am honored to run for AIA Georgia President, driven by a commitment to focus on mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. As an educator at KSU, mentorship has been central to my career, empowering the next generation of architects with the tools to lead and adapt in a rapidly evolving profession. As a Professor of Practice, I am equally passionate about advocating for architecture’s role in shaping policies, advancing equity, and demonstrating design’s transformative impact on our communities. Together, we can strengthen the profession, elevating our members and the communities we serve.
Carissa Oyedele, AIA
Desired Position: Secretary
Biography: Carissa Oyedele’s passion is implementing inclusive architecture and planning to transform underserved campuses and communities through the built environment. She executes creative design solutions prioritizing Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (JEDI) for various project types with complex programs, schedules, and delivery methods. Currently she leads the Corgan Atlanta Education Studio, focusing on K-12 and Higher-Education architecture throughout the Southeast.
Carissa has been a leader in AIA since on the onset of her career- as an AIA Los Angeles Board Director (3 years), AIA California Representative (2 years), and Committee Chairs for AIALA Design Awards & 2×8 Student Exhibition, prior to relocating from Los Angeles to Atlanta in 2021. In addition, she has been recognized as a leader in the architectural community as a recipient of AIA National Young Architect Award (2016), Top 20 Under 40 by ENR (Engineering News-Record) California (2016), and NextGen 10 in Real Estate & Finance by CSQ (C-Suite Quarterly) Magazine (2018). She is a registered architect in Georgia and California, a LEED AP BD+C Accredited Professional, and a NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer.
Statement of Qualifications: As a dedicated architect with a deep commitment to community development and mentorship, I believe in the transformative power of architecture. My journey in the profession began in 2003 in Los Angeles, where I quickly became an engaged member of the American Institute of Architects, contributing to both AIA LA and AIA California Boards. Since relocating to Atlanta in 2021, I have embraced the vibrant AIA Georgia chapter, actively participating in initiatives that uplift our local architectural landscape.
I recognize the pivotal role AIA plays in fostering connections and advocating for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) community. I am running for the position of AIA Georgia Board Secretary not just to fulfill administrative responsibilities but to enhance collaboration among our members and elevate our collective impact. If elected, my commitment will go beyond record-keeping and meeting participation. I will champion initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and innovation within our industry. I aim to ensure that every voice in our community is heard and valued.
Thank you for considering my candidacy.
Resume >
Simon Martinez, AIA
Desired Position: At-Large Director
Biography: I find myself with decades of multimarket experience and diverse portfolio comprised of both public and private projects across a wide range of market sectors nationwide, including: Workplace, Education, Residential, Mixed-use, Office, Hospitality, Commercial and Public Assembly. I have been a servant to our profession, leader and mentor to our future architects. This unique background provides an intimate understanding of the entire design and construction lifecycle, including challenges and opportunities for learning and growing. For the past six years, I served two consecutive terms as AIA Atlanta Board of Directors, as Development Director. Currently I’m serving my first term as AIA Georgia At-large Director. During this time, we provided financial management and oversight, we promoted the organization to current and future AIA members and participated in AIA Georgia strategic planning process. It is an honor and humbling experience and looking forward to the opportunity to continue to serve.”
Statement of Qualifications: People, Purpose and Places have been the driving forces behind an architect’s career. As an architect, I find engagement with our AIA members a priority. Purpose in the strategic vision AIA Georgia set forth for our members and most importantly, the impact our committees have to the places we create and impact to the profession we have from our advocacy efforts, programs and resources. AIA Georgia’s vision of driving positive change to our profession through the power of design, participation, collaboration and communication is why I would like to serve you as your AIA Georgia At-Large Director for the 2025-2026 term.
I believe the foundation of our profession is in part deeply rooted in our ability to communicate ways of broadening and expanding our reach, while being an influencer in the AEC industry through our designs and the ways in which we modify the fabric of our neighborhoods and communities. I look forward to continuing these critical conversations, elevating discussions and talking about possible responses related to legislative actions, advocacy priorities, building codes and permitting, professional licensing, sustainability, qualification-based selections and community resilience. We are experiencing unprecedented disruption, social inequity, climate impact, industry participation and economic rollercoaster, and I aim to continue to represent AIA Georgia by communicating, participating and formulating collaborative responses to the evolving nature of our profession.
Heather Potts Lang, AIA
Desired Position: At-Large Director
Biography: Heather Potts Lang AIA, WELL AP, LEED AP ND + Homes, is an architect and educator working in affordable housing, ethical development, and social sustainability. She is the owner of Potts Lang Architects and a guest lecturer in the School of Architecture at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where she was awarded the CIOS Award for Student Recognition of Excellence in Teaching. A graduate and past Advisory Committee member of the AIA Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program’s Georgia chapter and participant in the AIA/Georgia Tech mentorship program, Heather uses her work to advocate for equity in the building professions.
Statement of Qualifications: I believe that we, as architects, have a public responsibility to our communities. My current research and advocacy efforts center around improving the sustainability of neighborhoods, health of homes, and accessibility of the practice. We are leaders of societal change, and as a member of the AIA Georgia Board of Directors, I will advocate for the integrity of our profession within and among our communities. Recent AIA recognition and involvement include the COFxYAF Align Mentorship Program, 2024 Aspire Planning Committee, 2023 John A Busby Jr Award, 2023 AIA Georgia Honor Awards Jury, and 2023 AIA High School Design Competition Jury.
Chloe Newton, Assoc. AIA
Desired Position: At-Large Director
Biography: From the music, through the traffic, to the ever-growing skyline, Atlanta is truly home. Chloe Newton has always had an interest in creative work and knew she would pursue a career in the arts, in some form or fashion. The journey began at the College of Charleston, pursuing a major in Historic Preservation and Community Planning with a minor in Studio Art and Sociology, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Chloe Newton began to follow her artistic dreams at the High Museum of Art, Atlanta, GA, in the retail department. Declaring that she did not want to be the world’s best gift shop employee! Chloe Newton stumbled upon a book, Iggy Peck Architect, and this changed the trajectory of her life. She applied to the Georgia Institute of Technology’s Master of Architecture program. Currently, Chloe Newton works as a Senior Design Professional at HOK. Project type experience includes multifamily housing, institutional, medical education, and science and technology. She is also an Adjunct Professor at Emory University and Gwinnett Technical College teaching the fundamentals of architecture, visualization, and BIM software. Chloe Newton is a graduate of the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program, and a member contributor of AIA Atlanta. Outside of design and teaching, she experiments cooking healthy recipes, takes barre classes, supports her Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and most importantly – lives each day to make a difference in some form or fashion!
Statement of Qualifications: I bring a strong background in both teaching and professional practice, having worked on a diverse range of projects, including multifamily, higher education, and science and technology. In addition to my work, I serve on the Kennesaw Scholarship Committee, helping select the recipient of HOK’s annual scholarship. As an instructor, I teach subjects such as architectural history, visualization, and various graphic and modeling software. I’m also a recent graduate of the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program and am excited to further expand my experience with AIA Atlanta!
Toyin Olurebi, Assoc. AIA
Desired Position: State Associate Representative
Biography: Toyin Olurebi is an architectural designer at TVS, recognized for her experiences in cultural arts and convention centers with an emphasis on community connection and cultural legacy. A Kennesaw State University alumni and former Vice President and Treasurer of NOMAS KSU, Toyin has contributed to projects that uplift historically significant areas and create interactive, inclusive spaces. As an active volunteer at the High Museum of Art, she values networking and fostering meaningful engagement within architectural environments. Her dedication lies in integrating art, design, and culture to create spaces that inspire and empower, underscoring the potential of architecture as a medium for community growth and storytelling.
Statement of Qualifications: As an emerging professional, I am committed to crafting spaces that enhance community engagement and reflect cultural significance. My work on cultural arts and convention center projects emphasizes the importance of user experience and community involvement. In my role on the Design Committee at TVS, I actively collaborate with a talented team to push the boundaries of design, embracing innovation and creativity while ensuring our projects resonate with the communities they serve.
My dedication to community service is exemplified through my volunteer efforts at the High Museum of Art and Habitat for Humanity, where I strive to promote inclusivity and provide access to the arts. As a member of AIA and NOMA, I am passionate about fostering a supportive environment for emerging leaders and advocating for diversity within the architectural profession. In this role, I aspire to mentor and inspire future architects, creating a collaborative atmosphere where ideas can flourish, and new perspectives are valued. I believe in the power of design to tell stories and uplift communities, and I am dedicated to ensuring that architecture remains a vital force for positive change. By bringing my professional, leadership, and community experiences to this role, I aim to create meaningful connections and drive impactful initiatives that benefit both the profession and the communities we serve.
Christopher Tromp, Assoc. AIA
Desired Position: State Associate Representative
Biography: Chris Tromp is an alumni of Georgia Tech obtaining his B.S. Arch in 2019 and his M. Arch in 2021. As a Design Professional at HKS, Chris works on a variety of project types between commercial mixed-use, sports, and senior living. As a Living Futures Accredited professional, Chris is deeply interested in pushing the boundaries of sustainable design and implementing change to produce a healthier, more resilient, and personal built environment that sits in tune with nature. When Chris is not in the studio, you can find him out on a run around town or out on a hike nearby.
Statement of Qualifications: Mentorship and helping others are at the forefront of who I am. In high school, I served as one of two school representatives in the Gwinnett Student Leadership Team which set the stage for me to serve as the Vice President of Graduates on Georgia Tech’s AIAS Executive Board. In this role, I started a Student Mentorship Program, which I now chair as an Associate AIA member today. In addition, I was an advocate for students through my position on the school’s Student Advisory Council. Currently, I work as a Design Professional at HKS fulfilling a multitude of roles on my projects. Outside of project work, I, along with another co-worker, created a new recruitment process for our office that has become a firmwide resource and brought in top talent from across the nation. I also have taken the responsibility as a firmwide Sustainability Champion and am one of eight out of 1500 employees to have my Living Futures Accreditation. With three and a half years of post-graduate experience, I am aiming to become licensed soon where I can take my work as an architect to the next level. As the Associates Director, I will combine my strong servant leadership with a deep drive and compassion to foster the next generation of architects and represent the needs of associate members to the best of my ability. I will bring intention, creativity, and receptiveness as I aspire to connect the associate body, grow its participation, and advocate for emerging professionals.
Additional Resources
- Current Board of Directors: Explore AIA’s current Board of Directors and AIA staff leadership.
- AIA Georgia Bylaws (2021): Read the ratified understandings for the State Chapter.
- AIA Membership: Learn more about AIA and how to join over 100,000 other architects worldwide.
