Cynthia Phifer Kracauer, the well-respected longtime head of the Beverly Willis Architecture Foundation (BWAF), has announced she will be retiring from the organization at the end of December after serving as its executive director for more than seven years.

The announcement was made just a month after the passing of the organization’s pioneering namesake at the age of 95. Following this transition, the BWAF has initiated a search for a new Executive Director, a role that offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of architecture and design. Interested candidates can find more details and apply through Archinect Jobs.

Kracauer joined the organization in 2016 after serving as the Managing Director of AIA New York | Center for Architecture for ten years. There, she became a leader in many senses, helping to spearhead a number of award-winning initiatives while guiding the BWAF through the straits of the #MeToo movement and COVID-19. Kracauer has also taught at the University of Virginia, Princeton, and the New Jersey Institute of Technology, in addition to practicing in the office of Swanke Hayden Connell for more than 15 years.

In a press statement, Kracauer said her post at the BWAF was “one of the most rewarding opportunities a woman can have.” She is also previously credited with developing the Archtober festival in New York City, an event that remains wildly popular in its now 13th edition.

“As BWAF’s influence has grown, we’ve been inspired as more organizations nationally have increased their dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusiveness of their firms,” Kracauer added. “Our search for a new executive director offers a significant opportunity for someone who wishes to make a difference.”

An executive search is now underway to identify a replacement, according to the foundation’s Executive Committee. They say they are looking for a candidate to “continue leading the group to elevate women in architecture, engineering, construction, real estate and allied fields.” More information about applying to the open position can be found here on Archinect Jobs.