DIGroup Architecture (DIG) Associate Principal Kelli Glasgow has been named 2026 President of the AIA Newark & Suburban Architects (AIANS), representing more than 600 members and the largest local AIA segment in New Jersey. In addition to AIA-NJ, AIANS is a chapter of the American Institute of Architects. 

As president, Glasgow will champion a platform centered on positioning architects as visible leaders, educators and community advocates, reinforcing the profession’s relevance both within and beyond the design community. Her agenda is grounded in three strategic pillars – student membership, public awareness and member engagement – that collectively honor the chapter’s legacy, strengthen its professional community and inspire the next generation of architects. 

“Architects are uniquely positioned to lead – whether in classrooms, communities or civic conversations,” said Glasgow. “My goal is to elevate this visibility by engaging students early, strengthening connections within our membership and helping the public better understand the value architects bring to everyday life.” 

A central focus of Glasgow’s presidency is expanding student membership and access to the profession. Through partnerships with secondary schools, colleges and universities, she is advancing opportunities for students to engage directly with architects, explore career pathways and see design as both attainable and impactful. During Architecture Week 2026, Glasgow is working to lead a collaborative program with Newark’s newly opened Architecture and Interior Design High School, connecting students with practicing professionals through mentorship, volunteer engagement and exposure to real-world practice. 

Equally important to her platform is public awareness, aimed at reinforcing architects’ roles as civic leaders and problem-solvers. Glasgow emphasizes outreach beyond traditional professional circles, helping communities better understand how architecture shapes education, equity, sustainability and overall quality of life. 

Her third pillar, member engagement, focuses on strengthening the chapter’s internal community through collaboration, mentorship and inclusive leadership opportunities. By fostering meaningful connections among emerging professionals, mid-career architects and firm leaders, Glasgow aims to ensure AIANS remains a vibrant, supportive professional home for its members. 

“Kelli brings clarity and purpose to this role,” said Vince Myers, co-founding principal of DIG. “Her vision for visibility and engagement reflects the values of both AIANS and the broader profession – and her leadership will have a lasting impact.” 

That same commitment to visibility and engagement is reflected in Glasgow’s leadership at DIG, where she actively advances the development of emerging professionals. She safeguards the firm’s Architecture for Change mission by cultivating an internal culture that values mentorship, knowledge-sharing and professional growth alongside project excellence.  

Glasgow has pioneered initiatives such as Toolbox Lunch Box sessions, where senior staff share lessons learned with junior colleagues, and regular lunch-and-learn programs that foster continuous learning across the firm. As a result, DIG was recently recognized by AIA New Jersey as an EPiC Firm, honoring its outstanding commitment to licensure support, leadership development, career advancement and equity, diversity and inclusion. 

Glasgow was officially sworn in as President of AIA Newark & Suburban Architects during the chapter’s Annual Presidents’ Celebration at The Highlawn. The event also recognized outgoing President Lisa Walzer, AIA, and included the installation of the 2026 AIANS Board of Trustees.