About DC NOMA

DCNOMA is an organization comprised of architects, designers, preservationists, students, teachers and concerned individuals who believe in using the built environment as a medium for change and inspiration. DCNOMA’s mission is to serve and promote the interests of underrepresented groups in the design profession and community at large within the Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas. DCNOMA accomplishes these goals through Professional Education programs, Public Advocacy, Community Service Projects, Partnership with Allied Organizations, Student Support and Promotion of the Design Profession to the youth of today.

Our Mission

The Washington D.C. Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (DCNOMA) seeks to champion equity, diversity, and inclusion in the profession of architecture and related design fields. DCNOMA will provide a voice for the un-empowered, the marginalized, and the disenfranchised while taking a stand against apathy, bigotry, intolerance, ignorance, abuse of the natural environment. DCNOMA will celebrate the design excellence that minority professionals contribute to the profession while fostering fellowship between its members and supporting professional licensure of its members through community engagement, service, and professional development.

Our Goals for 2024 + 2025

DCNOMA intends to continue the work of the 2019-2020 board and incorporate the NOMA National framework to EDUCATE, ELEVATE, and EMPOWER our members.

  1. EDUCATE - DCNOMA will support all eligible members on their path towards licensure, through a study material library, study groups, and mentorship.

  2. ELEVATE - DCNOMA will continue to support Project Pipeline and East of the River, while seeking out opportunities for our members to give back to our community through freelancing and volunteer committees.

  3. EMPOWER - DCNOMA will develop a mentorship program to connect members and take ownership of their career path. We will continue to use it as a platform to grow the Chapter and strengthen the talents of our members.