Dumke Announces Retirement from AIA Michigan and AIA Detroit; Sido Named as New Executive Director

Detroit, MI, October 31, 2010 --(PR.com)-- The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Michigan and AIA Detroit announced the retirement of Executive Director Rae J. Dumke, Hon. AIA, at the end of 2010. Barb Sido, CAE, has been named as Dumke’s successor.

Dumke has been involved with the AIA since 1967, starting as a secretary before progressing to her role as Executive Director in 1984. The Grosse Pointe Farms and Leelanau County resident has been deeply committed to architecture and the profession, leading AIA Michigan, managing AIA Detroit and the Michigan Architectural Foundation (MAF) and providing support to AIA’s nine chapters throughout Michigan. She will continue to serve on the MAF Board of Directors.

Under Dumke’s leadership, AIA purchased and renovated a historically significant building in downtown Detroit, the Beaubien House, which currently serves as AIA Michigan/AIA Detroit and the Michigan Architectural Foundation headquarters. She also expanded advocacy efforts; furthered the practice of architecture in the state; established innovative programming, partnerships and public outreach; and created guides and books.

Dumke was awarded the prestigious AIA Honorary Membership by AIA Detroit in 1984, AIA Michigan in 1987 and AIA National in 1990. In 2009, she was inducted into the Michigan Association Hall of Fame, the highest honor bestowed upon an association executive by the Michigan Society of Association Executives (MSAE).

"Rae Dumke has been a pivotal force for architects in the state, AIA Michigan and its chapters in more than 43 years of service," said AIA Michigan President Alan Cobb, FAIA. "Her ability to connect with outside groups and create collaborative opportunities with AIA through events and continuing education programs has provided a tremendous benefit to our members."

Sido has more than 20 years of experience running non-profits and associations, specializing in strategic management of resources. She is recognized within AIA and the architecture community for her commitment to leveraging the profession’s knowledge and skills in continuing education, conferences, contract documents, publishing and government affairs.

A Certified Association Executive (CAE), Sido previously served with the AIA National Office in Washington D.C., where she was the vice president of knowledge and professional practice for the past nine years. She also has held positions as chief knowledge officer and foundation director for the School Nutrition Association, and as deputy executive director at Business and Professional Women/USA.

Sido holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri, and a master’s degree from the McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University.

“We eagerly look forward to having Barb Sido join AIA Michigan,” said Cobb. “With her addition, we anticipate being capable of continuing the growth of our education programs and advancement of our government affairs initiatives in Lansing.”

The mission of AIA Michigan is to serve its membership, advance the values of the profession and improve the quality of the built environment. For more information, please visit www.aiami.com.

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