OAA Council serves as the board of directors for the Ontario Association of Architects. With election season kicking off later this fall, the OAA asked Councillors what made them want to run in the first place. 

Jenny Lafrance, OAQ, OAA, PMP, LEED GA, is a Partner Architect and Studio Director at Provencher_Roy where she leads the Ottawa-Gatineau office. She sits on the Continuing Education (ConEd) Advisory Committee and serves as Council’s liaison to the Registration Committee and the Ottawa Regional Society of Architects (ORSA). Jenny holds one of the two Eastern Ontario seats on the OAA’s governing Council. 

1.  Why did you first decide to run for Council?

I wanted to become more involved in the architectural profession across Ontario and connect with colleagues in a collaborative, non-competitive environment. I also saw it as an opportunity to contribute my experience and perspective to the profession in a meaningful way. 

2.  What do you enjoy or appreciate about the experience? 

I have learned so much about good governance practices and how they apply to a self-regulating organization. I have also gained a much clearer understanding of the OAA’s mandate and how it differs from that of organizations such as the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC). 

The opportunity to connect with fellow Architects has been incredibly rewarding—I especially enjoy the collegial and social aspects of the experience. Serving on Council also allows me to stay ahead of emerging issues and conversations that are shaping our profession. 

3. What would you say to someone thinking about pursuing a nomination for the very first time? 

Go for it! You are more capable than you may realize, and you have valuable experience, ideas, and perspectives to contribute to the organization. Trust yourself and take the leap—you belong at the table. 

This year, there are five seats for Architects to join Council and guide the Association in regulating the practice of architecture to protect the public interest. To learn more about running or the general processes, visit the Council Elections page.