Leadership and Design Literacy: Erica Rife on Equity, Community, and the Future of Architecture
Podcast: Expressions of LeadershipPublished On: Tue Mar 24 2026
Description: In this episode, Michele Kawamoto Perry speaks with Erica Rife, Executive Director of the Architecture Foundation of Oregon, about her journey from the startup world to nonprofit leadership, and how design literacy can expand who has a voice in shaping the built environment. They explore Erica’s path into design-focused work, her decision to return to school to deepen her understanding of equity and philanthropy, and why early exposure to design education is critical for creating more inclusive communities. The conversation also examines the slow but necessary reckoning within the architecture field and what leadership looks like in times of change. Erica speaks candidly about burnout, mental health, and stepping into visible leadership while becoming a mother, and shares her vision for an organization grounded in listening, adaptability, and community-centered impact. Connect with Erica Rife: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericarife/ Learn more about the Architecture Foundation of Oregon: https://www.af-oregon.org/ Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram @ExpressionsOfLeadership. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.
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