Speaker Spotlight: Saundra Little, FAIA, LEEP AP, NOMA
2024 AIA Tennessee Conference Speaker
Saundra Little is a principal and Director of Diversity Equity and Inclusion at Quinn Evans. In her over twenty years of experience in architecture and project management, Saundra has overseen the design of several notable projects in the Detroit area, including the award-winning renovation of the Allied Media LOVE Building, the TechOne building at TechTown, the David Klein Gallery, and current the board designs of the three Detroit Public Schools High School projects.
Saundra’s portfolio reflects the diversity of the neighborhoods she champions, with successful cultural, institutional, educational, and commercial projects of all sizes. Her work in design, revitalization, and adaptive use projects consistently demonstrates respect and sensitivity to the unique architectural heritage of local neighborhoods. Through her devotion to this challenging work, she has helped renew, uplift, and sustain vulnerable communities. Saundra Little has focused on sustainability, community planning, project energy assessments, and urban design.
Saundra is a past President of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) Detroit and moderates the panel series Common Ground, which explores diversity, equity, and inclusion in the design community.
Learn more about Saundra in our Q&A below.
First, would you give a short summary of what you’ll be speaking about at the AIA TN conference and its importance for architects?
My session focuses on collaborating with the community to create sustainable, equitable, and inclusive spaces. In response to historical disparities, as architects—and as government representatives, developers, building owners, historians, and community members—we are entrusted with the stories of the past, whether they are well-known or as yet undiscovered.
What keeps you grounded in your personal or professional life?
I fully credit my family for keeping me grounded and for putting me back in line whenever necessary.
Music: What are you currently listening to? Â
Ride with Me! By Kabza de Small & DJ Maphorisa (This song has a nice Afro-techno Vibe)
Would you share some of your biggest lessons in your career?Â
Starting my architectural firm during the recession taught me the real meaning of resilience. There were tons of business start-up resources available in Detroit during the 2008 Great Recession. During this time, we could focus on learning business principles and tactics. I called this phase of my life “my “living MBA.” Why weren’t more transparent, practical business perspectives shared during my college education or early experiences as a firm employee? I believe every architect should understand the business side of architecture.Â
Photo Courtesy Quinn Evans
Photo Credit: For Saundra Little in Action Photos
Photos Courtesy of Saundra Little
Find out more about Saundra and the AIA Tennessee Conference in the links below.