ESa’s Tara Myers elevated to The American Institute of Architects (AIA) College of Fellows
ESa is proud to announce that principal and risk manager, Tara Myers, FAIA, NCARB, EDAC, LEED® AP BD+C has been named to the American Institute of Architect’s (AIA) College of Fellows.
Myers is one of four architects from ESa to hold this designation; the other three are the late Earl Swensson, founder of the firm; Richard (Dick) Miller, Chairman Emeritus; and Todd Robinson, current president.
ESa President Todd Robinson praised Myers saying, “It is an honor for ESa to have Tara in the AIA College of Fellows. She is respected not only within our firm but throughout our architectural community as a voice of reason, a consummate professional and a caring soul.”
“I truly believe that at its core, the profession of architecture is a service to society,” said Myers. “We sit at the intersection between people and the built environment and are in a unique position to foster connections and shape the surrounding world.”
Along with her Fellows designation that will be added to her American Institute of Architects credential, Myers holds several additional credentials and certifications: National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB); Evidence-based Design Accreditation and Certification (EDAC); and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Accredited Professional Building Design + Construction (LEED® AP BD+C). She has served the AIA in local, state and national roles, is a founding board member of the Nashville chapter of Women in Healthcare, and an active member of ULI (Urban Land Institute) – Nashville.
“Tara is a role model to her peers and a leader within the profession. She is a servant leader, dedicated to community, and a trusted advisor to our young professionals,” said ESa vice president Kevin Harney. “It’s truly an honor to work alongside her.”
The fellowship program was developed to elevate architects who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession and made a significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level. Prospective candidates must have at least 10 years of AIA architect membership and demonstrated influence in at least one of the following areas:
- Promoted the aesthetic, scientific, and practical efficiency of the profession.
- Advanced the science and art of planning and building by advancing the standards of practice.
- Coordinated the building industry, and the profession of architecture.
- Ensured the advancement of the living standards of people through their improved environment.
- Made the profession of ever-increasing service to society.
- Advanced the science and art of planning and building by advancing the standards of architectural education and training.
Fellows are selected by a seven-member Jury of Fellows. This year’s jury included Chair Lisa Lamkin, FAIA, Brown Reynolds Watford Architects, Inc; Carl D’Silva, FAIA, Perkins + Will; Sanford Garner, FAIA, RGCollaborative; Margaret McFadden Carney, FAIA, Cornell University; Pamela Rew, FAIA, KSS Architects; Anne Schopf, FAIA, Mahlum and Lourdes Solera, FAIA, MCHarry Associates.
At ESa, Tara serves as principal and risk manager and contributed to design innovations for healthcare, hospitality and corporate office developments, such as the Next Door – Transitional Living & Recovery Support Services Center, oneC1TY – Masterplan & 8 C1TY Blvd. Medical Office Building and the Gulch Crossing Mixed-Use development. Throughout her entire career, Tara has led civic and volunteer initiatives in the community and design/construction industry. She uses the networks she developed in these positions to create connectivity across these platforms and promote the relevance and value of architects and good design.
With a passion for education, community health, mentoring and giving back to the community, Tara has led pro bono projects across Middle Tennessee for the benefit of children, teachers, veterans, families and disadvantaged women. She is actively involved with several industry and non-profit organizations, including the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the American Heart Association, ACE Mentor Program, The Academies of Nashville and Boy Scouts of America.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition and to be able to carry on the legacy of service that ESa is known for in the Nashville community and beyond,” said Myers.
