SMMA is pleased to announce that Anne Fontaine, a Senior Associate and Senior Project Architect, has been elected AIA Rhode Island President for 2026.
Anne has been with SMMA for 16 years, working across a diverse range of markets including government, life sciences, and workplace. More recently, she has played a key role in SMMA’s higher education projects for Providence College and Rhode Island College.
Anne is an invaluable mentor and organizer, guiding her colleagues on topics such as energy codes, construction administration, internal manuals, and tech tips. Outside SMMA, Anne’s experience and leadership earned her a seat on the AIA Rhode Island Board of Directors in 2022, followed by her appointment to Vice President in 2025.
We sat down with Anne to discuss her year ahead as AIA Rhode Island President and reflect on her personal career journey in architecture.
Q: What inspired you to become an architect?
In high school, I wanted to be a painter. It was my mother, an art teacher, who recommended architecture as a creative profession I might enjoy. When I applied to Roger Williams University with an “undeclared” major, I was accidentally assigned to architecture classes. I took that as a sign and decided to give it a shot! As it turns out, I love being an architect.
Q: You’ve practiced architecture for over 18 years. What professional shifts do you think today’s emerging architects should be most aware of?
There has been a lot! Sustainability is a big one because of how energy codes have evolved over recent years. The codes aren't just more stringent; they are more complicated and require deeper knowledge than ever before.
Also, with the introduction of hybrid work, emerging architects must work harder to actively seek out mentorship and engagement with their coworkers. There are many ways to do that, but it needs to be intentional. Projects in our industry move fast, and it can be hard to take time for those important learning opportunities. My advice is to take time for conversations and questions, even the small ones. And if you can, take advantage of seminars and events! These interactions matter.
Q: Congratulations on being named AIA Rhode Island President! What inspired you to pursue this position and what goals are you hoping to accomplish during your presidency?
Thank you! In a small state like Rhode Island, involvement with AIA can have real impact. I got involved with AIAri (AIA Rhode Island) at the suggestion of Nick Koulbanis [Director of Architecture at SMMA and a former AIAri President]. Professional organizations help represent and support the profession in so many ways, from advocacy to education and knowledge sharing. But it doesn’t happen without members getting involved. Serving on the board has shown me that the more you invest, the more you gain.
One of my goals for the year is to connect AIAri with other design organizations throughout Rhode Island. There is a strong foundation of advocacy, mentoring, and networking in place. It would be great to bring the various organizations together.
Another goal is to plan for the future of architecture in Rhode Island. We aim to develop our chapter’s next Strategic Plan while strengthening support for students and emerging professionals.
Q: AIA’s 2021-2025 Strategic Plan has two critical focal points: Climate Action and Equity. How do you think architecture, and AIA RI specifically, can continue to confront challenges and lead progress?
Architecture is critical to climate action. Through reducing energy consumption in our buildings and designing for greater resilience, we have opportunities to make a significant impact. Resiliency is especially important in coastal areas like Rhode Island. AIAri and its members are well-situated to contribute to, and even lead, those discussions.
I think the best way for AIAri to improve equity and access to our profession is to lean into mentorship of the next generation. AIAri can help to advance diversity in the architecture profession and related fields through partnership with programs like the ACE Mentor Program, scholarships for architecture students, and education and networking opportunities.
Q: Finally, what experiences, professional or personal, have best prepared you for this leadership role?
Being an architect has taught me how to lead a team, trust my knowledge, and seek answers when I don’t have them. Motherhood has taught me how to juggle and to work smarter when time is limited. I’ve learned to be more intentional about how I show up and that has been one of the most valuable lessons to help me succeed both at work and at home.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I’ll put in a plug for everyone to get involved this year with their local professional organization. From attending networking events to committee meetings and CEU opportunities, there are so many ways to engage and find value!
