SpeakUp! 2025
Architects’ Advocacy Day in Nashville
March 31 – April 1, 2025
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW | REGISTRATION EXTENDED TO 4PM/CT MARCH 27, 2025
Thank you to Risk Strategies for being the exclusive sponsor of Architects’ Advocacy Day.
Architects’ Advocacy Day is a pivotal event where members from across the state come together to advocate for the profession and Tennessee’s built environment. This is your chance to meet with legislators, educate them on key-issues impacting the profession and influence policies that shape our communities. Join us to connect, advocate and make a lasting impact on architecture in Tennessee.
Hotel Booking Now Closed
Agenda & Schedule | Join us for One or Both Days
Tentative | Updated 03/21/25
Monday, March 31
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Welcome Reception & Check In/Registration
The Athenaeum
225 Polk Avenue
Nashville, TN, 37203
Event will kick off with our Welcome Reception & Registration! Join us to check in, collect materials, and connect with fellow attendees in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy hor d’oeuvres and drinks, network with colleagues, and get ready for an engaging event ahead.
5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Keynote Address and Legislative Insights
LU to be applied for approval
The Athenaeum
225 Polk Avenue
Nashville, TN, 37203
Gain valuable insights from key legislators and policy leaders as they discuss pressing issues, emerging policies, and top priorities shaping the future.
7:00 PM
Dinner On Your Own
Looking for a great place to dine? Explore local restaurants and make reservations in advance using OpenTable or Resy. Plan ahead to enjoy the best dining experiences the area has to offer!
Tuesday, April 1
Advocacy Day on the Hill
7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Blueprints & Bagels: Building Connections
Cordell Hull Building – 8th Floor
425 5th Ave N
Nashville, TN 37243
Start your morning with Blueprints & Bagels, a casual come-and-go gathering over a continental breakfast and coffee. Connect with legislators and their staff in a relaxed setting, discuss key issues, and share insights on the impact of architecture while enjoying a fresh start to the day.
8:30 AM (All Day Until Final Meeting | Showcase to End at 3pm/CT)
Legislative Visits & Showcase
Cordell Hull Building
425 5th Ave N
Nashville, TN 37243
Engage directly with lawmakers during Legislative Visits, where you’ll meet with legislators or their staff to advocate for the profession, discuss key issues, and highlight the value of architects in shaping communities. These conversations are crucial for building relationships and influencing policy decisions.
Please note: AIA TN will work to place you on a team to visit with legislators in your area. You will not attend a meeting by yourself. Meetings/schedules are typically given to staff on Thursday before our Day. Thank you for you patience as staff works to accommodate and coordinate the Team Visits for April 1. There are a lot of moving schedules.
Meanwhile, the Showcases will highlight topics demonstrating the impact of design on economic growth, public safety, and quality of life. These serve as a powerful platform to educate lawmakers and reinforce the essential role of architecture in shaping the built environment. The showcase table will be set up in the Legislative Cafeteria on Floor One.
(Updated) Lunch Tickets will be Provided for U-KNO Cafe (included in registration fee) or On Your Own
Be sure to take a break for lunch or explore local dining options near the Hill. Nearby options include:
- U-Kno Café Inside the Cordell Hull Building – Lunch Ticket Provided & Included in Registration Fee
- 417 Union 417 Union St
- Vallaros 239 4th Ave N
- 4th and U 315 4th Ave N
- Starbucks 315 4th Ave N
- Rae’s Gourmet Sandwich Shoppe 501 Union St
View more options via Google Maps.
Important Notes
Cordell Hull Building Security: You will need to go through a metal detector to enter the Cordell Hull Building. Please allow time for this.
“Know Before You Go” Communication & Online Legislative Briefing: We will be following up with attendees at least one week prior with a “Know Before You Go” email to give you all the final details. An online prep session will be held on Friday, March 28 at 10 am/Central (11am/Eastern) to for participants to gain insight into key legislative issues, messaging and the overall agenda for the event. Hosted via a virtual platform, this briefing will feature AIA TN’s Government Relations team who will provide updates on relevant bills, legislative priorities, and talking points tailored for meetings with lawmakers.
Participants will receive guidance on effective advocacy techniques, messaging strategies, and logistical details to ensure they are well-prepared for their in-person discussions. This session offers an opportunity to ask questions, clarify concerns, and align messaging to maximize the impact of the Day on the Hill engagements. Please hold this date and more information will be sent in the coming days.
