The Dallas Chapter of the American Institute of Architects and the Architecture and Design Foundation announced naming AIA Fellow Zaida Basora executive director after an eight-month nationwide search conducted by both organizations along with Victory Search Group.

“Our search committee was looking for an engaging, experienced, respected, and proven executive director to lead AIA Dallas and the Architecture and Design Foundation, two organizations at the center of a growing chapter, city, and North Texas region,” said 2019 AIA Dallas President Richard Miller, FAIA, in a statement. “We believe Zaida Basora is just that leader. Zaida’s involvement in the AIA at the local, state, and national level gives her the well-earned credibility which is representative of her passion, commitment, and respect within the profession. She has a robust sphere of influence due to her unique background and history that makes her a huge benefit to our members and community.” 

Basora brings public and private sector experience to the combined role, including leading the architectural practice and serving as sustainability manager for the Dallas office of Huitt-Zollar after spending two decades with the City of Dallas. She has been involved with AIA Dallas, AIA National, the Texas Society of Architects, and other nonprofits in board and committee roles.

While with the City of Dallas, Basora helped implement over $800 million in public facility projects and directed the city’s green building program recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council. She is a registered architect, sustainability advocate, and has more than 35 years of experience in design, construction, contracting, and public policy.

“I’m excited about this opportunity to serve our architect members and our community,” said Zaida Basora. “I look forward to positioning the Architecture and Design Exchange as a cultural, civic, and educational destination, as well as a partner and a resource for the betterment of our north Texas communities through design.” 

In the dual leadership role, Basora will be tasked with enhancing the quality of life in the Dallas area. She will promote excellence in architecture, design, and the environment as well as create a positive change in area communities by offering public programs that encourage dialogue about the architecture and design industries.

AIA Dallas joins AIA Orange County as the only two chapters with an AIA Fellow as executive director. She replaces Jan Blackmon in the role; operations director Cristina Fitzgerald acted as interim executive director during the transition. 

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