Mission

The AIASMC Communications Committee leads the ongoing discussion of how best to provide chapter resources to our members, collaborators, and the general public. By providing timely and helpful information to a broad audience, we strive to create more awareness around topics and events that are vital to architecture as an environment, a business practice, and an industry that has local and global impact.

Goals

  • Promote upcoming events and information from AIASMC and our other committees:
    • Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
    • Committee on the Environment
    • Emerging Professionals
    • Housing
    • Scholarship
    • Programs and Tours
    • Membership and Sponsorship
    • Advocacy
  • Help generate chapter revenue by broadening our outreach
  • Continue to improve our website as a go-to resource for chapter information
  • Improve communication and content to newsletter subscribers
  • Maintain our social media presence and create interesting, exciting content

Opportunities

  • Monthly committee meetings to establish and carry out the above goals
  • Website and social media content generation

Mikaela Leo, AIA, NCARB, WELL AP, Fitwel Amb.
Director & Communications Committee Chair

Mikaela Leo, a California-licensed architect, is passionate about using design as a tool for social good—a commitment that began with volunteering for organizations like Habitat for Humanity and continued through her early work on educational and cultural projects. Raised in New Mexico and educated at the California College of the Arts, she focused her graduate studies in the Bay Area on community-driven efforts, including youth-led design-build programs, fresh produce delivery, and strategies to preserve cultural enclaves.

Since joining DES in 2022, Mikaela has become a leader in the firm’s Education and Life Science sectors, while contributing to business development and operational standards. She’s active in firm culture and community, leading wellness efforts, organizing 5K races, participating in the gardening club, and serving on committees for the San Mateo AIA and Real Estate Divas Bay Area. She finds joy in hands-on learning through construction admin, factory tours, and site visits—and in bringing people together over a good meal. A believer in collaborative design, she values solutions that address immediate needs while benefiting the broader community. Outside of work, you’ll find her in the kitchen, reading in her favorite chair, or planning adventures with her husband.

If you have any questions or concerns or would like to join the Communications Committee, please contact Mikaela Leo [email protected] or Communications Committee Member Kenny Hong, AIA   [email protected]