AUGUST MEMBER SPOTLIGHT 2024
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT | julian owens
Julian Owens, NOMA, AIA, NCARB
Julian Owens: Architect Committed to Community and Equity
Julian Owens has devoted his career to using design to positively influence communities, especially those underserved. His journey began at Clemson University, where he earned his Master’s Degree in Architecture. During his time there, Julian focused on community-designed and built projects, aiming to understand how architecture can uplift and benefit communities. His dedication led him to establish the university’s chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS), which he successfully grew and developed.
Julian's involvement with NOMA did not stop at the university level. He served on the DCNOMA executive board from 2018 to 2019, where the chapter won the Most Improved Chapter award at the NOMA conference in Brooklyn, NY. His commitment extended to the national stage, where he took on roles as a National Student Representative, Parliamentarian, and Executive Secretary. These positions allowed him to advocate for minority architects and ensure their voices were heard on a larger scale.
In 2020, Julian founded Pledge of Excellence Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to recognizing and amplifying the overlooked excellence within marginalized communities. Through this organization, Julian leverages his architectural skills to inspire and uplift future generations, reflecting his unwavering commitment to community impact.
Professionally, Julian holds the position of Architect at Jacobs, a leading global design firm. His role at Jacobs allows him to work in a collaborative environment where he can blend his professional expertise with his passion for community engagement. Julian’s approach to architecture is not just about designing buildings; it’s about creating spaces that serve and enhance the lives of those who use them. In addition to his work at Jacobs, Julian serves as an adjunct professor at Howard University, teaching second-year studio classes. This role enables him to mentor and guide young architects, sharing his knowledge and experience while fostering a new generation of socially conscious designers. His dedication to education and mentorship is a testament to his belief in the power of architecture to create positive change.
Julian's innovative and impactful work has recently been recognized with the prestigious 2024 Architectural League Prize for Young Architects + Designers. His design collective, Partners of Place, received acclaim for their project "Dirty (Infra)structure," which examines systemic inequalities in infrastructure. The project challenges traditional notions of dirtiness in infrastructure, highlighting the societal implications and burdens placed on marginalized communities. By focusing on these issues, Julian and his collective aim to redefine the role of infrastructure in addressing social inequities. He also received the Modern-Day Technology Leader Award at this year’s BEYA (Black Engineer of the Year) STEM Conference in Baltimore, MD.
Julian’s work and achievements underscore his dedication to social and environmental equity. He continuously pushes the boundaries of architecture, striving to create a more inclusive and just future. His leadership, vision, and commitment to community impact make him a notable figure in the field of architecture, earning him the Member Spotlight for the month.
Julian Owens exemplifies the transformative power of architecture when combined with a deep commitment to community and equity. His journey from a student leader to a recognized professional and community advocate showcases his passion and dedication to making a positive difference through design. As he continues to inspire and lead, Julian remains a beacon of hope and progress in the architectural world.
