2020 Women in RE: Ann Rolland, FXCollaborative

Name: Ann Rolland, FAIA, LEED AP

Title: Partner

Company Name: FXCollaborative 

List up to three associations or organizations that you are currently a member of: American Institute of Architects (AIA) College of Fellows; Non-Traditional Employment for Women (NEW); Beverly Willis Architecture Foundation (BWAF)

What recent project or accomplishment are you most proud of? 
I am currently developing a declaration/manifesto for our resource library to seed change in our industry—a call of action so that the resources we (and our colleagues) select contribute to the creation of a healthier, more equitable, and sustainable future. As designers, we have a responsibility to insist on accountability and persuade change in our industry. We will articulate our firm’s commitment to the health and well-being of our planet and the inhabitants of the environments we create by asking manufacturers and vendors to disclose their policies on social justice, ethical sourcing, human health, sustainability, and the climate crisis.

What trend(s) will dominate your industry in the next year?
Diversity and inclusion—the development of real, tangible, and achievable ways to diversify our industry so our practices represent the communities we design for and represent. The dearth of a multi-faceted, multi-racial, gender- and sexual orientation-blind demographic in our industry is long overdue. We have been too patient!

What is one characteristic that you believe every woman in business should possess? 
Rather than a single characteristic, I believe that every woman in business should possess a blend of conviction, tenacity, and tolerance.