MEMPHIS, Tenn. – March 18, 2026 – AIA Memphis has named Justin Jakovac as its new Executive Director. An experienced nonprofit executive with over twenty years of experience with associations, Jakovac joins AIA Memphis to advance the chapter’s mission of design excellence and community advocacy.
Jakovac and his wife, April, are excited to call Memphis home after relocating from the area of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Prior to joining AIA Memphis, Justin served for nearly seven years as the Executive Director of the Mountain-Plains Museums Association. During his tenure, he focused on growth by improving member services, launching a webinar series, and modernizing the organization’s committee structures. Related volunteer roles include serving on a panel as grant reviewer for the Institute of Museum and Library Services and exhibit hall coordinator for the Association of Midwest Museums.
AIA Memphis looks forward to welcoming Justin and his family to Memphis, TN. We are excited for the opportunities and experience Justin brings to our chapter. Please mark you calendars for April 7 th for a “Welcome the Executive Director” – full details to follow.
Justin’s career began in 2005 at the National Council for History Education, where he advanced from Project Manager to a five-year tenure as Executive Director. His consistent focus there was the facilitation of high-quality professional development; successfully deploying large-scale annual conferences, regional workshops, and robust affiliate networks.
A native of Northeast Ohio, Justin holds degrees in History and Political Science from Bethany College in West Virginia. He continues to serve the broader community on the Education Advisory Board of the American Archive of Public Broadcasting and is proud of his seven years on the Education Advisory Board for National History Day. Outside of the office, the Jakovacs enjoy exploring new places, supporting their two children in youth sports, and volunteering with the local special needs community.
About AIA Memphis
AIA Memphis, a local chapter of the American Institute of Architects, is a professional organization representing architects and design professionals throughout the Memphis region. Dedicated to advancing design excellence and community advocacy, the chapter provides its members with robust professional development, networking opportunities, and industry resources. AIA Memphis empowers its members to build healthy, sustainable, and vibrant communities through the transformative power of architecture.
