50 Years of NOMA: A Timeline

In 1971, 12 African American architects from across the country met during the AIA Convention in Detroit. What the professionals shared was a recognition of the need for an organization dedicated to the development and advancement of architects of color. They wanted underrepresented design professionals to work together to fight discriminatory policies that limited or barred architects like themselves from participating in design and construction projects and programs.

This became the founding of the National Organization of Minority Architects, which now has 37 professional chapters throughout the country and 80 NOMA Students chapters on college and university campuses. This year, NOMA celebrates 50 years of promoting the quality and excellence of design professionals of color.

• Why Equity Matters

  ARCHITECT's October 2021 issue, guest edited by the National Organization of Minority Architects, showcases the achievements of the broad and diverse design community. But it also serves as a call to action.

  

• The Pursuit and Promise of Equity in Architecture

  For Black architects, this is a moment of energy, hope, and caution. Will change happen?

  

• 50 Years of NOMA: A Timeline

  As the National Organization of Minority Architects celebrates its golden anniversary, take a look back at events, individuals, and projects that helped propel diversity and inclusion in design.

  

• How HBCUs Benefit Architects and Architecture

  Historically Black colleges and universities have an invaluable role in diversifying the design community and profession.

  

• Giving to the Profession Can Also Be Fulfilling Personally

  Joining an industry or association at the national, regional, and local levels can strengthen your connection to your discipline as well as to other individuals, communities, and networks.

  

• Next Progressives: Soft-Firm

  This New York-based interdisciplinary “brain-trust” generates concept-driven and iterative approaches across different scales—all while having serious fun along the way.

  

• Confronting the Legacy of Inequity in Architectural Lighting

  Chromatic co-founder Lauren Dandridge is determined to make a difference through her design expertise—and motivate others in the lighting industry to do the same.

  

• 5 Building Product Manufacturers and Designers of Color

  Architects looking for quality interior products—and a more diverse list of suppliers—can turn to companies such as Studio PGRB and Clare Paint.

  

• On the Road to Washington, Jason Pugh Reflects on NOMA’s Power and Future

  On a drive to deliver donated computers to several historically Black colleges and universities in D.C., the 2021-2022 National Organization of Minority Architects president shares his hopes for the organization.