DCNOMA

Get ready to sparkle and shine to celebrate DCNOMA - 5-Star Chapter of the Year! Join us for a night of Jingles, Mingles, and Celebrations! Come for the fun, stay for the connections, and help us kick off the celebration in style. ⭐️Venue: 1700 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington DC, 2006; 5th floor and Rooftop, 5.00pm - 8.30pm, Dec 11. ⭐️Special Thanks to Daikin U.S. Corporation as the venue sponsor. ⭐️Dress Code: Chic, festive, and ready to mingle! ⭐️Enjoy music, exciting conversations, and the great panoramic view of DC. Whether you're a long-time member or a first-timer, there's plenty of room for everyone to mix, mingle, and make memories. ⭐️Registration link: https://lnkd.in/e6ueF3Mu Please reach out if interested in event or chapter sponsorship. #dcnoma #daikinus #equity #holidaysocial #noma #sustainability

🚨 ONE WEEK LEFT! 🚨 ⏳ The countdown is ON! There’s only 1 week left to sign up for the DCNOMA x National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Event, and trust us, you don’t want to miss this! 💼✨ 📅 When & Where: 🗓️ Wednesday, December 4th ⏰ 6:00–8:00 PM 📍 NCARB Office: 1401 H St NW, Ste 500, Washington, DC 20005 💡 Why you need to be there: ✅ Learn how the 2030 Challenge is reshaping the industry and what it means for YOUR career. ✅ Get insider tips on navigating the path to licensure directly from NCARB experts. ✅ Understand the vital role we play in increasing diversity—did you know African Americans make up only 2% and Hispanics just 5% of licensed architects in the U.S.? It’s time to change that! ✅ Connect with professionals and peers, and leave inspired to build a more inclusive and sustainable future. 🎯 Don’t wait—spots are filling fast, and this is your chance to gain invaluable insights for your professional journey. 👉 Sign up now! https://lnkd.in/eiPnUY76 Any questions please reach out to our Professional Practice Chair Mika Yamaguchi Let’s level up together, fam! 💪🏾🏛️ #DCNOMA #NCARB #2030Challenge #RepresentationMatters #PathToLicensure #ArchitectureForAll #LetsBuild

Hey DCNOMA fam! Let’s rally together to support the amazing NOMAS UMD Chapter! They’re raising $1,000 to fund workshops, mentorship programs, and community outreach initiatives that help shape the next generation of architects! 💥 How can you help? 💥 ✨ Head to their Double Good Fundraiser: https://lnkd.in/gyJMJqvw ✨ Grab some gourmet popcorn (50% of every purchase goes straight to their goal!) ✨ Enjoy the deliciousness while making a BIG impact! Let’s show our love and support to these future leaders. Together, we can make it happen! 

📢 DCNOMA November Chapter Meeting Recap! Yesterday, we gathered at Torti Gallas + Partners for an incredible chapter meeting. Huge thanks to our Historian Robert Anthony Stanton, AIA, NOMA and Jonathan Johnson, AIA, NOMA for their warm hospitality and the inspiring tour of your beautiful office space. For those who couldn’t make it, here’s a quick recap of what you missed: ✨ Highlights from the Agenda: NOMA Conference Recap: Our President, Morina Peterson, shared highlights, photos, and reflections from the NOMA Conference, including our 5-Star Chapter Award win! The award will be making its rounds at future meetings. Election Nominations Closed: Nominations for Student Liaison, Parliamentarian, and Director of Communications are in! Voting begins now through November 30th—watch for an email from Parliamentarian Cheryl Dixon to cast your vote. Sponsorships Acknowledged: Treasurer Sarah Bannerman, LEED Green Associate thanked our amazing annual sponsors 🥉 Bronze: re|DISTRICT and Armstrong World Industries 🥈 Silver: Ayers Saint Gross DC office 🥇 Gold: Hord Coplan Macht DC office We also acknowledge our event sponsors Project Pipeline food sponsor HGA DC office Hispanic Heritage Month Joint event with LAIDEA and AIADC Beyer Blinder Belle DC office Gensler DC office Membership Update: Telicious Robinson Assoc. AIA, NOMA our Executive Vice President and Membership Chair announced a 30% increase in membership, bringing us close to 200 members—the highest in DCNOMA history! She also shared updates on our Firm Crawls and encouraged everyone to register for the upcoming NCARB event on December 4th. Celebrating Achievements: Congratulations to those recognized in Arch 30: Sarah Bannerman, LEED Green Associate, Joy Cunningham, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, LEED Green Associate, Joshua Cato, Byronaé Lewis, NCIDQ, and Rebecca Ambouroue, Assoc. AIA WELL AP! We also celebrated Genell Anderson and AMAR Group, LLC for being honored as a Top 100 MBE. 🎉 Don’t miss the Leaders & Legends Awards Ceremony on November 19th. Spotlight on Jessica Bantom: Support Jessica and her incredible book, Design for Identity! Purchase on her website or Amazon and follow her on LinkedIn for updates. Programming Updates: Camilla Do, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP 2nd Vice President and Programming and Planning Chair, shared plans for our year-end social and called for volunteers. Supporting NOMAS Chapters: Morina highlighted upcoming fundraisers like UMD NOMAS Popcorn Fundraiser—details coming soon! The evening wrapped up with light bites and an inspiring tour of Torti Gallas’ office. 💬 Missed the meeting? Reach out to Morina or any board member for updates! 📅 Next Meeting: Stay tuned for details on our upcoming chapter meetings and events. Let’s keep the momentum going, DCNOMA! #DCNOMA #ArchitectureDiversity #ChapterMeetingRecap #CommunityImpact

🗓️ Save the Date! DC NOMA x NCARB Outreach Event ONLY TWO WEEKS LEFT TO REGISTER! We need a strong turnout to make an impact. Here’s what’s on the agenda: 1. NCARB Committees: Applications open in January—learn how to get involved! 2. Survey Data: Insights into the challenges faced by Black and minority groups, and how NCARB can enhance support. 3. Exam Topics: We’ll discuss exam questions, share testimonials from recent passers, and hear from those still testing. 4. Exam Relief and More: Bring all your questions—nothing’s off the table! Your presence matters, so let’s show up and make our voices heard! 📅 Date: December 4th 🕕 Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 👥 Who’s Invited: DCNOMA members, with extended invites to Bmore NOMA, nycoba | NOMA (NY Coalition of Black Architects|National Organization of Minority Architects - NY) and VANOMA, all NOMA members. 📍 Where: NCARB office, 1401 H St NW Ste 500, Washington, DC 20005 🚨 Important: RSVP by November 27th! Secure your spot and join the conversation on Eventbrite link https://lnkd.in/eiPnUY76 Any Questions Please reach out to our ARE Programming Chair Mika Yamaguchi

🌟 Big News! 🌟 DCNOMA is thrilled to announce an incredible opportunity brought to us by the amazing team at Metropolis Magazine! Known for its influential coverage of architecture, design, sustainability, and innovation, Metropolis Magazine has been a staple in our industry since 1981. As part of their prestigious Arch30 program, Metropolis recognizes top young talent under 30 from leading firms across major cities. This year, DCNOMA was invited to nominate five of our most dedicated young professionals to join the Arch30 DC Cohort 2024—a rare and inspiring honor typically requiring a rigorous selection process. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our members, we were able to handpick individuals who exemplify leadership, commitment, and an unwavering passion for our mission to be apart of the Cohort. ✨ Congratulations to our extraordinary selections: Sarah Bannerman, LEED Green Associate Joshua Cato Joy Cunningham, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, LEED Green Associate Byronaé Lewis, NCIDQ Rebecca Ambouroue, Assoc. AIA WELL AP Thank you for your dedication to DCNOMA and for shining bright as the future of architecture and interior design! You are a vital part of our community, pushing forward our mission to create a more inclusive and innovative profession. Let’s celebrate these amazing members and all they bring to our organization! 🥂✨ To see other Arch30 cohorts: New York Cohort https://lnkd.in/gkX8BjA8 Chicago Cohort https://lnkd.in/eEtFC8W7 San Francisco Cohort https://lnkd.in/eDeguE7p Boston Cohort https://lnkd.in/en7japRJ #DCNOMA #Arch30 #MetropolisMagazine #YoungProfessionals #ArchitectureLeaders #BrightFuture

🇺🇸✨ Honoring Veterans Day with DCNOMA ✨🇺🇸 Today, we celebrate the courage, sacrifice, and strength of our veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation. In Washington, D.C., the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and countless other monuments remind us daily of their stories and sacrifices. As architects and designers, we’re inspired by how these powerful spaces connect the past with the present, offering places of remembrance, healing, and unity for all who visit. Each memorial stands not only as a tribute to those who served but as a testament to the impact that thoughtful design can have in honoring legacies and uplifting communities. On this Veterans Day, we’re proud to honor our veterans and reflect on how architecture shapes the way we remember and express gratitude. Thank you for your bravery, resilience, and unwavering dedication. 🕊️🇺🇸 #VeteransDay #DCNOMA #HonoringHeroes #MonumentalDesign #ThankYouVeterans #LegacyInArchitecture

🌟 Final Firm Crawl of the Week: Gensler DC Welcomes Us! 🌟 What an inspiring night with our passionate emerging professionals and NOMAS students from The Catholic University of America, Howard University, University of the District of Columbia, and the University of Maryland! Gensler's D.C. office closed out our Firm Crawl Week with style, delivering an evening packed with insights, creativity, and career connections. 🔥 ✨ Inspiration and Leadership at Gensler Our visit began with an incredible presentation by Simisola Marinho, IIDA, DCNOMA member, Principal, and Studio Director of the Work 4 Studio, alongside Principal Lisa Cholmondeley, a strong advocate for emerging professionals. Lisa also spoke about shared valuable tips on internships, job opportunities, and what Gensler looks for in standout portfolios and applications. Together, they shared Gensler’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and fostering diversity and inclusion within the firm. Hearing about Gensler’s transformative projects and values firsthand was truly inspiring! 🎤 Insightful Leadership and Tour Highlights The evening continued with words from Kim Sullivan, Co-Managing Director of Gensler’s D.C. office, who welcomed us into the heart of the firm’s culture and mission in D.C. Sarah Bannerman, LEED Green Associate, DCNOMA Treasurer, Samuel Morgan, Benjamin Ripley, Jonathan Plass, LEED AP and Brian Temple Jr. then led an exclusive tour, showcasing vibrant workspaces, collaborative areas, and even the new outdoor patio! 💬 Student Spotlight "I was both excited and nervous to visit Gensler, the world's largest architecture firm. But from the moment we walked in, their warm welcome put me at ease. I’d never been in such a large, impressive office—there were times I felt like I could get lost in the massive space! Their hospitality was amazing, and the booklet they shared gave me an inspiring glimpse into Gensler’s world. Now, I’m more determined than ever to one day be a part of this incredible firm. Here’s to hoping that dream becomes a reality!" – Muhammad Ataul Gani, NOMAS member and Catholic University student 🏢 Networking & Closing Remarks We capped off the night with a warm networking session and inspiring words from Lisa, and Simi, who left everyone feeling motivated about their paths in architecture. Huge thanks to Gensler for hosting us and to organizers Meredith Flanagan, CMP Fellow, CMM, CPCE, SEPC and Sarah Bannerman for making this event unforgettable! Gensler’s support for DCNOMA and future architects left us all motivated and energized for what’s next. Another unforgettable Firm Crawl stop on our #FirmCrawl2024 journey! 🚀💥 #FirmCrawl2024 #GenslerDC #DCNOMA #ArchitectsOfTomorrow

🌟 Day 3 of Firm Crawl Week: SmithGroup Inspires with Purpose and Passion! 🌟 Yesterday was an unforgettable evening at SmithGroup’s D.C. office with our brilliant NOMAS students from The Catholic University of America, Howard University, the University of the District of Columbia, and the University of Maryland! SmithGroup welcomed us warmly, sharing insights into their impactful work and vibrant firm culture. 🔥 🎤 Engaging Talks and Personal Journeys The night continued with inspiring presentations, beginning with Dayton Schroeter AIA, Design Director, who spoke passionately about his leadership in SmithGroup’s Culture Studio. Dayton shared his experiences working on community-centered projects and highlighted the pro bono work SmithGroup undertakes—work that often goes unmentioned but has a significant impact. Following him, Dominique Serrette, AIA, LEED Green Associate, Kamille Hampton, and Kendra Hyson each shared their unique career paths and defining projects. Dominique emphasized the critical role of project management in driving project success, Kamille recounted her journey from Boston to D.C. in search of new opportunities, and Kendra offered insight into her work in landscape architecture, focusing on the importance of site-specific urban planning. Each story reminded us of the rich and varied paths available within architecture! 💬 Real Conversations During the Q&A, our students engaged in a powerful discussion on career growth, overcoming being “pigeonholed,” and the courage to explore new interests. Dominique’s insights into evolving beyond design roles and embracing project management sparked fresh perspectives among students and young designers alike. ✨ Spotlight on Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) SmithGroup shifted focus next on their J.E.D.I. Scholarship Program, which aims to support a more inclusive design industry. With up to $6,000 in tuition support and a paid internship opportunity, this scholarship is a game-changer for students pursuing their goals. Applications for 2025 are open until midnight on December 1, 2024—learn more at SmithGroup J.E.D.I. Scholarship. 📚https://lnkd.in/dJuNTEKt 🏢 Office Tour, Rooftop Views, and Networking After the Q&A, we enjoyed snacks, pizza, and drinks before an inspiring firm tour. The evening wrapped up on SmithGroup’s rooftop, where we took in views of the Washington Monument and connected with peers and professionals alike. A perfect end to an inspiring visit with SmithGroup! FirmCrawl2024 SmithGroup #DCNOMA #ArchitectsOfTomorrow

🌟 Day 2 of Firm Crawl Week: Perkins and Will Took It to the Next Level! 🌟 What an unforgettable evening with our incredible NOMAS students from The Catholic University of America, Howard University, University of the District of Columbia, and the University of Maryland! Perkins&Will D.C. office set the bar high with a night filled with insights, inspiration, and impactful connections. 🔥 ✨ Purpose and Passion at Perkins and Will The evening kicked off with an inspiring welcome from Managing Principal and DCNOMA member Damon A. Sheppard, AIA, LEED AP, NOMA, alongside Talent Manager Marcela Chamorro, who shared Perkins and Will’s dedication to community impact, JEDI initiatives, and career pathways for interns and young professionals. This focus on purpose and equity truly resonated with everyone in the room! 🎤 Dynamic Panel and Project Highlights Our excitement grew as Renee Rodriguez (Operations Director), Carl Knutson (Design Director), and Brittany McNairy, ASID, LEED AP, WELL AP (Senior Technical Coordinator) took the stage to highlight some of Perkins and Will’s standout DC projects. The night reached a new level of inspiration with a fantastic panel discussion moderated by Marcela and featuring Renee, Carl, Brittany and Anne-Philippe Kakou. The conversations sparked fresh perspectives and meaningful career advice. 💬 Student Spotlight “What I love most about Perkins and Will is their dedication to community impact, which is something I’m incredibly passionate about. Seeing them engage in local projects really resonates with me as a native—it truly feels personal. As someone who transitioned into architecture later in life, connecting with Viviane Pedruco who has had a similar path, made me feel seen and less alone in this journey. This experience has been amazing so far!” – Deidra Jappa, NCARB, NOMA, Catholic University Student and NOMAS President 🏢 Epic Office Tour & Networking The night ended with an exciting office tour and networking session, giving everyone the chance to connect with the amazing Perkins and Will team. Massive shoutout to Perkins and Will for creating a welcoming space for future architects and for their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and student engagement. Another unforgettable stop on the #FirmCrawl2024 journey! 🚀💥 #FirmCrawl2024 #PerkinsAndWill #DCNOMA #ArchitectsOfTomorrow