“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
~ Margaret Mead, American Cultural Anthropologist
Leadership Development
Managing an architecture firm is not the same as leading an AIA component but many architects approach their tenure as a chapter leader (or a community activist) in much the same way they operate within their practices. Our experience and exposure to both management / leadership areas allows us to articulate the differences and provide the proper training and preparation for leadership for a firm, within our professional society, or in the community.
Ownership Transition
As many later-career architects and designers contemplate retirement, they must attend to transitioning the leadership, ownership, and management of the firm to other capable individuals. Our approach helps identify those potential future leaders (if/as necessary) and uses a unique attributes-enhancement stratagem to develop the relational, practical, legal, fiduciary, and administrative qualities necessary for them to lead a firm at the highest levels.
Diversity Training
In an era when much-deserved attention is given to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, many firms and organizations find themselves struggling against unintended bias and other negative attributes of a non-J.E.D.I. (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion) culture. Based largely on cultural transformation techniques, our unique approach to awareness and training creates a more positive environment for persons from any traditionally underrepresented group within the design professions.
What Others Say
“Helene is a tireless advocate for architecture and the design profession, which made her the preferred choice when seeking high level executive coaching for the ownership succession planning of my practice, VIA design architects, pc. I am very interested in how we take ownership of our own stories and lives since creativity is all about ownership. Helene’s ability to guide the next generation to understand and believe in the power of the same has launched our company on the path to become a dream practice.
Working with Helene is like working with a true partner! Her competent, astute, and inspiring qualities make her feel as if she has always been a part of VIA. She has an impressive natural way which quickly builds trust and allows her to obtain the most visceral of thoughts from the team and bring clarity to core lifelong needs for the future of the company.
VIA’s future forward and durable success is founded on the strength that Helene has provided me to let go and the manner in which to do so! Helene is such a bright spot in both my personal and professional life! It’s hard to imagine either without her!”
~ Donna M. Phaneuf, FAIA | Founding Principal and President
VIA design | Norfolk, Virginia
The Three Aspens 