Linda K. Penaloza-Resch, Assoc. AIA

Director (2023-24)

Linda is a Job Captain at Vision 3 Architects. Linda is involved with the Design Awards Committee and Emerging Professionals Committee. She also participated in the 2020 Task Force Initiative which focused on topics relating to the Black Lives Matter Movement.

Linda is originally from Cucuta, Colombia and migrated to Miami, Florida at the age of seven. She graduated from Miami Dade College (MDC) with an Associates of Arts degree and transferred to Roger Williams University (RWU) to complete her Bachelor of Architecture, and finally her Master of Architecture degree. Once at RWU, Linda was influential in developing a connection between MDC and RWU that provides a pathway for a diverse group of students to earn their Bachelor Degree in the Architectural Program.

During her final semester, she received an Award for her architectural thesis which focused on improving Fisherman housing, commercial activity, and tourism in Honda, Tolima, Colombia which is prone to flooding. Her love for experiencing and learning about different cultures led her to study abroad in Barcelona, Spain for a semester. Previously, Linda received the Norton Salk Memorial Scholarship for Design Excellence from AIA Rhode Island.

Outside of the office, Linda enjoys spending time with friends and experiencing the outdoors with her wife and her mini Goldendoodle (Louie).

I am interested in serving on the AIA Rhode Island Board of Directors because I want to be involved in changes made for current and future generations. To me, architecture is not a typical 9 to 5 job, it is an instrument through which problems are solved in both society and the built environment. I also believe that learning from others through community involvement is imperative in order to become a better person and professional. As a Hispanic female in the LGBTQIA+ community being influential and having my voice be heard will stand as an example for younger generations. Through the leadership skills I have developed, I will strive to shape policies that will uphold inclusivity, equity, and diversity within our chapter. Placing these ideals at the forefront will better our profession and communities.