National Organization of Minority Architects

National Organization of Minority Architects. It is a professional association founded in 1971 to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within the field of architecture and the broader built environment. Established by a group of pioneering African-American architects during the American Institute of Architects national convention in Detroit, the organization advocates for the advancement of minority design professionals. Its work encompasses mentorship, licensure support, policy advocacy, and community engagement to address systemic barriers in the profession.

History

The organization was formally founded on December 12, 1971, by architects including Wendell Campbell and John S. Chase, the latter being the first African American to graduate from the University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture and to be licensed in the state of Texas. Its creation was a direct response to the marginalization of minority architects within mainstream professional bodies and the urgent need for a supportive network during the Civil Rights Movement. Early meetings were often held in conjunction with events like the AIA Conference on Architecture, providing a platform for collective action. Key early supporters and collaborators included figures like J. Max Bond Jr., whose work on projects like the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change exemplified the mission. The organization established its national headquarters in Washington, D.C. to better influence federal policy and engage with institutions like the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards.

Mission and objectives

The core mission is to build a strong national registry of minority architects and designers while empowering local chapters to foster justice and equity in their communities. Primary objectives include increasing the number of minority individuals enrolled in National Architectural Accrediting Board-accredited programs and successfully navigating the Architect Registration Examination. The organization seeks to dismantle barriers to professional licensure and promote equitable hiring practices within major firms like Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and Gensler. A further objective is to influence public policy related to community development, sustainable design, and equitable procurement, often providing testimony to bodies like the United States Congress and collaborating with the U.S. Green Building Council.

Programs and initiatives

Signature programs include the **NOMA Foundation Fellowship (NFF)**, which provides financial aid and mentorship to students at institutions such as the Harvard Graduate School of Design and Howard University. The annual **NOMA Phil Freelon Professional Design Competition** honors the legacy of the architect of the National Museum of African American History and Culture and challenges firms to address social issues. The **Project Pipeline** initiative runs summer camps for youth in cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta to introduce architecture and design. The organization also hosts the **NOMA National Conference**, a major gathering featuring forums, the **NOMA Council of Global Diversity** discussions, and the **Barbara G. Laurie Student Design Competition**. Collaborative initiatives with partners like the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture focus on curriculum development and faculty diversity.

Leadership and governance

The organization is governed by a national executive board elected by its membership, which includes a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer, along with regional representatives. Past presidents have included notable architects such as Kathryn Tyler Prigmore and Michele G. Mitchell. Policy and strategic direction are set by this board in consultation with the **NOMA Council**, which comprises leaders from local chapters across the United States. Day-to-day operations are managed by an executive director and staff from the Washington, D.C. headquarters. The **NOMA Foundation**, a separate 501(c)(3) entity, oversees philanthropic and scholarship programs, guided by its own board of trustees including professionals from firms like Moody Nolan and Perkins&Will.

Impact and recognition

The organization has significantly increased the visibility of minority architects, with members leading high-profile projects like the Smithsonian Institution renovations and the Obama Presidential Center. It has been recognized with awards such as the **AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Award** for its advocacy efforts. Its advocacy has influenced diversity initiatives within the American Institute of Architects, leading to the creation of the **AIA Diversity Council**. The annual **NOMA Member Firm Awards** highlight practices that exemplify inclusive excellence. Furthermore, its persistent work has contributed to a growing discourse on equitable urban development, influencing programs at agencies like the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and shaping exhibitions at cultural institutions like the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. Category:Architectural organizations based in the United States Category:Professional associations based in Washington, D.C. Category:Organizations established in 1971