January Professional Member of the Month

Alison Brunn

Substance Architecture

Associate AIA

1. What is the most exciting and energizing aspect of your current position?

For me, it’s to be constantly learning new things. I also like that every day is different and a bit unpredictable.

2. What was the last interesting book you read?

I’m currently reading Teaching to Transgress by bell hooks.

3. What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

Helping to open up a space at the most recent AIA Iowa convention to talk about sexual harassment, in the form of a bystander intervention workshop. AIA Iowa was able to get the workshop learning units approved for HSW credit, which felt like an important acknowledgement.

4. How do you define success? And measure it?

By honestly asking: do I feel good about the work I’m doing, who it serves, and the material impact it will have on people?

5. We are Iowa Women in Architecture; who were the female role models that inspired you? 

Within my family, I’d say my great aunt, grandmother, and mom. I’m lucky to have many role models among the people I’ve studied with, worked with and organized with.