2026 Board Nominees

BIOGRAPHY:

Afsha is a licensed architect in the State of California with over 24 years of experience designing and managing projects across the Bay Area. Her portfolio spans custom residences, multifamily housing, and transformative K–12 educational facilities—including gymnasiums, cafeterias, libraries, music buildings, and performing arts centers. Whether leading new construction or major renovations, Afsha brings a deep commitment to enhancing user well-being and creating spaces that uplift entire communities.

She is currently involved in several mass timber projects and strongly believes that as an architect, she has a duty to minimize waste, and create healthy, sustainable and biophilic environments.

When not working, Afsha enjoys spending time outdoors, travelling and hiking.

CANDIDATE STATEMENT:

Architecture is more than design—it’s a reflection of how people live, feel, and connect. As architects, we shape experiences that leave lasting impressions on individuals, families, and communities. Through my work in education and housing, I’ve come to believe that our profession holds a profound responsibility for the mental health and emotional well-being of those we serve.

My vision is rooted in creating spaces that promote safety, dignity, and holistic wellness. I see architecture as a tool for healing and empowerment—and I’m committed to using it to foster equity and resilience.

Since joining the AIA Silicon Valley Board in 2022, I’ve served as Secretary and led the Design Awards and Program Committee with passion and purpose. I’m honored to be nominated as Vice President and President-Elect for 2026, and I look forward to advancing our chapter’s mission through deeper community engagement, impactful advocacy, and inspiring mentorship.

BIOGRAPHY:

I have been with Hayes Group Architects for over 25 years. I have been a Partner/Principal for over 10 years. I joined the AIASV Board in 2021 as Director for over a year and half and then as the Treasure for the past 3 years. I have also been the chair of the AIASV golf fundraiser, with a successful track record and growth each year for the sold out event. With over 25 years of experience managing local and international commercial projects for clients, I understand how to lead, and support, multidisciplinary teams, and successfully collaborate, remotely.

My design skills and thinking were shaped early on by the techniques and skills that I gained during my exposure to the design and hands on construction of theatre and film sets. Moving from the Washington DC metropolitan area where I grew up to Arizona for architecture school meant that I spent several years in the Arizona Sonora desert. It was there that I developed a great appreciation for environmental forces and context that guide and shape true environmental site responsive and sensitive architectural solutions.

I continue to build on that experience, and clients appreciate my ability to develop strong architectural concepts, solve complex problems and deliver high quality architectural solutions to their project goals. My portfolio includes award-winning commercial projects, workplace interiors for both Fortune 500 Silicon Valley technology companies, private wealth, and venture capital firms, as well as new mixed-use buildings for regional developers. My experience also includes life science projects, and I have extensive experience with video and audio recording/editing suites, studios, and theaters.

Outside of the architecture studio and job sites, I can be found often exploring California’s great outdoors with my wife and two sons. Milestones from my adventures have included hiking the John Muir Trail over an 8-day back packing trek in 2018, and then again returning on the High Sierra Trail in for a 9-day, 80-mile hike which concluded in my summiting Mount Whitney. My older son and I share a love of scuba diving, and I have been on dives around the world.

CANDIDATE STATEMENT:

My AIA engagement started at an AIA sponsored firm tour in downtown Washington DC when I was in the 7th grade, sparking my interest into the architecture profession. During college years I was involved with AIAS as a chapter leader. As a Partner with Hayes Group Architects, I have handled the financial stewardship of the company which have provided me with the skillsets needed to continue the role as Treasurer.

Direct responsibilities have included project bid evaluations, proposals and budgeting, billings, payroll, reviewing and evaluating monthly and annual financial statements, while constantly guiding decisions to meet monthly and annual budget goals. So far I have been able to keep food on the table.

As a board member I am aware of the monthly treasures reporting responsibilities as well as have developed a relationship with the different board members, executive director, and our new accountant helping facilitate discussions and decisions needed to track and manage the annual budgets goals.

I appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve on the Board as Treasurer for another term.

BIOGRAPHY:

Madhubala Ayyamperumal is a passionate Design Professional, mentor, and advocate for sustainable design who believes in using socially and environmentally responsible design to improve lives. With a diverse portfolio across Asia, the Middle East, and the United States, her professional experience spans Healthcare, Life Sciences, Tenant Improvement, Hospitality, Mixed-Use, Residential, and Workplace Design, she currently works as a Project Designer at Five Design Architecture & Interiors.

Over the years, Madhu has contributed to projects at leading firms such as Gensler, CAC Architects, and SM+D, bringing a depth of knowledge and a multidisciplinary perspective to her work. She brings a strong focus on sustainability and wellness-centered design, which form the foundation of her design philosophy. Madhu is especially passionate about interiors and spatial design, approaching each project with the belief that well-designed spaces can profoundly impact human experience.Madhu holds dual master’s degrees in Architecture and Engineering from Pennsylvania State University, where she was awarded the Henry Adams Medal and Certificate of Merit by the American Institute of Architects.

A dedicated mentor, she is actively involved with ACE Mentorship and SFNOMA, leading initiatives that foster diversity and inclusion within the profession. She plays an instrumental role in the AIA Silicon Valley Chapter through the Committee on the Environment. As the founding chair of the chapter’s Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP)—the first of its kind on the West Coast—she successfully launched and led its pilot cohort in 2024. She currently serves on the board of AIA Silicon Valley and AIA California as Associate Director (North) focusing on EP (Emerging Professionals) leadership programs at the state level.

She was recently recognized as one of the “100 Women of Influence” by the Silicon Valley Business Journal and a “Top Young Professional” by ENR West Region. She is also a recipient of the prestigious Architecture Master Prize (Honorable Mention). Outside of work, she enjoys typography, sketching, hiking, and volunteering for causes close to her heart.

CANDIDATE STATEMENT:

As a design professional with global experience across Asia, the Middle East, and the United States, I am deeply committed to using architecture as a medium to reflect and elevate the diverse stories of the people and communities we serve. My design philosophy is grounded in sustainability, wellness, cultural responsiveness and the belief that well-crafted spaces can meaningfully enhance human experience.

Through my involvement with the AIA Silicon Valley Chapter—particularly as the founding chair of the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP)—and as Associate Director (North) at AIA California, I have worked to bridge the gap between emerging professionals and leadership. These roles have affirmed my belief in the importance of mentorship, professional development, and building inclusive pathways for future leaders in our field.

I remain passionate about supporting the next generation through initiatives like ACE Mentorship and SFNOMA’s Project Pipeline, helping young minds see themselves in the AEC professions. As a board director, I will continue to champion mentorship, advocate for socially and environmentally responsible design, and uplift voices from diverse backgrounds to drive a more equitable and forward-thinking profession.

BIOGRAPHY:

Jane is a licensed architect and design leader with over a decade of experience delivering complex, cross-sector projects. Her work spans aviation, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and civic facilities. Actively engaged in the profession, she serves as a Program Committee Member for the AIASVC AI’26, a Subject Matter Expert for the California Architects Board, and an NCARB Education Committee Member. With rapid shifts in technology, climate, and economy, Jane is committed to evolving architectural practice to meet emerging challenges. Outside of work, Jane enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading books, and running half marathons.

CANDIDATE STATEMENT:

My journey in architecture has shown me how our profession can grow by moving beyond project-based work to become a trusted, ongoing partner in building resilient communities. As technology, climate, and economy continue to shift, I hope to play a part in helping our practice adapt. I’m passionate about supporting emerging professionals through mentorship and real-world opportunities. These are pivotal times for our industry, and I would be honored to contribute my energy, ideas, and collaboration toward shaping the future of practice.

BIOGRAPHY:

Danielle Vogel is a licensed architect with over 15 years of experience in commercial interiors, tenant improvements, and technical design. As a Senior Project Architect and Associate at IA Interior Architects, she has enhanced studio-wide quality control and BIM standards through mentoring and documentation leadership.

She earned her Bachelor of Architecture from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and is a LEED Accredited Professional (BD+C). Before returning to IA, Danielle worked with AP+I Design and Huntsman Architectural Group, gaining hands-on experience in healthcare and workplace projects. She currently chairs the AIA Silicon Valley Scholarship Committee and has been an active member since 2016.

CANDIDATE STATEMENT:

My extensive experience in the commercial, R&D, legal, and healthcare markets has strengthened my passion for innovative problem-solving and ongoing professional growth. At IA, I help foster a culture of continuous learning by mentoring team members and providing resources that support their development.

I am honored and excited to be nominated for the AIA Silicon Valley Board of Directors, where I hope to bring the same energy, vision, and commitment to service. I am especially dedicated to supporting students and emerging professionals as they navigate the path to licensure and leadership. I look forward to supporting the chapter’s mission and growth.