“A commonality unites Ruth Ro’s undertakings as associate principal at Dattner Architects: a consistent push for increased diversity and inclusion.” — Crain’s New York Business
Dattner Architects is pleased to announce that Associate Principal Ruth Ro has been named to the 2021 Notable LGBTQ Leaders and Executives list by Crain’s New York Business. This list celebrates 58 LGBTQ professionals in New York City who are making a major impact through their “career accomplishments, their mentorship of others, and their involvement in community and industry organizations.”
“One of the most important moves we can make as members of an underrepresented or marginalized group is to be visible. In a leadership role, I have a responsibility to represent, to empower, and to fight for change with every opportunity I get.” — Ruth Ro
Over the years, Ruth has spearheaded a number of LGBTQ initiatives at Dattner Architects and has participated in several panels discussing the importance in facilitating an inclusive and understanding workplace in the AEC industry. In 2020, Ruth founded the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion group at Dattner Architects — tackling intersectional issues that affect minority employees in the workplace. Her leadership and advocacy have led her to be an active voice in the AIA New York Diversity and Inclusion committee. In addition, Ruth was named a Board Member at Build Out Alliance, a leading non-profit whose mission is to promote and advocate for inclusion of LGBTQ community within the building, design, and construction industries.
“During this difficult year that has exposed the persistent racial inequities that affect our industry and society at large, Ruth has exemplified fearless leadership and tireless advocacy for equity and inclusion within our practice, industry, and beyond. It has been inspiring to work with Ruth in tackling issues that not only affect the LGBTQ+ community, but also the diverse intersectional issues we face in our industry and in our day to day lives.” — Martin Tolentino, Dattner Architects’ Marketing Director
“As the project manager for challenging and complex buildings, Ruth gives her team members the room to expand their professional experiences and capabilities. She provides a supportive, mentorship-focused structure to facilitate individual, as well as team success. All project team members are given ownership over components of a project’s design and are empowered to present them to clients and other project stakeholders. This confident leadership style enables junior team members to become more skilled design advocates and public presenters. Her approach to her work and team leadership includes an enthusiasm that inspires colleagues and clients. She is a true leader in every sense of the word.” — John Woelfling, Dattner Architects’ Principal
Congratulations to all those being honored this year by Crain’s. See the full list here.
