Architecture is Political

We celebrate this 100th episode with the recipients of The DVC Memorial Scholarship. The 2025 recipients are Taylor Latimer (Harrisburg Memorial Award), Cheryl Dixon (DC Memorial Award), Makenzie Anane Elam (NOMA Award), and Leslie Aileen Ponce-Diaz (Honorable Mention). The conversation opens with introductions from long-time friends of Desiree (Nikolas Hill, Carol Smith Twyman, Morina Peterson, Katherine Williams), who reflect on her legacy and the challenges of navigating the architectural profession. Recipients share how they discovered the scholarship, often through networking at NOMA events, and speak candidly about balancing the demands of rigorous exams with professional responsibilities. Together they explore ways to expand the scholarship’s impact by suggesting resources for study materials, fostering stronger community ties among recipients, and establishing a shared network directory. The discussion concludes with heartfelt gratitude for the support and recognition the scholarship provides. This year’s recipients each received $1,410 toward their exams.Makenzie Elam is a young black woman born and raised in Durham, North Carolina. She is a three time graduate from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, Master of Architecture and Master of Urban Design. Makenzie has a passion for teaching and mentorship of not just the next generation of youth, but the next generation of architects and designers. Makenzie currently volunteers at one of her local hospitals as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Volunteer as a Baby Cuddler and a Girl Scout Troop Leader/Volunteer for one of the local chapters in her area.A proud native ATL-ien and two-time alumna of Tuskegee University, Cheryl is an architectural designer, who provides a multidisciplinary approach to the built environment. With an affinity for design-build and hands on collaboration, Cheryl values opportunities to connect clients and industry experts to devise innovative solutions. Pairing her background in construction management with her strengths in architectural and interior design, Cheryl enthusiastically enjoys contributing to the full life cycle of a project, from schematic ideation and programmatic strategy to turn-key constructed implementation. Outside of work, Cheryl enjoys spending time with her parents and family, volunteering with graduate members of her sorority, traveling to live music performances, playing tennis, crate digging at vinyl record stores, and trying new vegan eats.Taylor Latimer is a Designer at OCA Architects in Newark, New Jersey. With over seven years of experience in the Architecture field, she has contributed to a wide range of projects across the U.S., including mixed-use residential, educational, public, hospitality, and transportation developments. Taylor brings a distinct lens to her work—one rooted in cultural awareness, user empathy, and social impact. Her approach to design is grounded in the three pillars of sustainability: environmental responsibility, economic viability, and social equity. Taylor holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Carnegie Mellon University and a Master of City and Regional Planning from Rutgers University, with additional studies in business and real estate development. As the current President of the New Jersey chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), Taylor is a fierce advocate for equity in the profession. In addition to her professional work, Taylor is deeply invested in mentorship and education.

Jonathan Tarleton, an urban planner and oral historian, talked about his book 'Homes for Living: The Fight for Social Housing and a New American Commons.' We discussed his motivation behind writing the book, which focuses on two social housing cooperatives in Brooklyn and Manhattan. We go in-depth about the ongoing housing crises in the U.S., the difference between cooperatives and social housing as well as the disparities in wealth-building opportunities for Black and Brown communities. Tarleton explains his personal viewpoints on the Mitchell-Lama program, challenges in the co-op governance, the technicalities behind privatization and the broader fight for social housing. We also touch on how larger community involvement and public perception towards viewing housing as a public good can help sustain affordable housing models.Jonathan Tarleton is a writer, urban planner, and oral historian. He is the author of Homes for Living: The Fight for Social Housing and a New American Commons. He previously served as the chief researcher on Nonstop Metropolis: A New York City Atlas and as the editor of Urban Omnibus. His essays have appeared in Orion, Jacobin, Hell Gate, Dirt, and beyond.Social media: instagram: @jonathantarleton; twitter: @jttarleton; bluesky: @jonathantarleton

Telicious Robinson shares her journey from Ohio to DC, her experiences in the architecture industry, and her vision for the future of DC NOMA (National Organization for Minority Architects). She talks about her passion for healthcare architecture, the challenges of navigating professional spaces as a Black woman, and the importance of giving back to the community. We also discuss the need for honesty, the importance of mental health, and how advocating for change within the industry can empower younger generations of Black architects.Telicious Robinson, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, LEED GA is a seasoned Technical Designer/Medical Planner with over 13 years of experience across a diverse range of project types. Her extensive portfolio spans Higher Education, Residential, Industrial, Hospitality, Commercial, Aviation, and K-12 schools, with a predominant focus on healthcare architecture.A passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Telicious actively participates in initiatives within her firms and as a dedicated member of NOMA (National Organization of Minority Architects). She serves as Vice President of the DC NOMA chapter, where she champions the advancement of underrepresented voices in architecture. She was also selected for the 2024 AIA Next to Lead program, an exclusive leadership initiative designed to support ethnically diverse women in the profession.In addition to her professional work, Telicious is deeply committed to education and mentorship. She serves as an adjunct professor at Kent State University and as a NOMAS advisor, guiding and inspiring the next generation of architects.Originally from Cleveland, OH, Telicious holds dual bachelor's degrees in Science for Architecture from Kent State University and Bowling Green State University and a master’s degree from Boston Architectural College. In her role as a Designer and Job Captain, she has led impactful healthcare projects, including Infusion Pharmacy Upgrades, ICU units, Family Health Centers, Surgery Centers, Oncology Units, Lab Design Services, and Imaging Suite Upgrades, showcasing her versatility and expertise in the field.IG: @teethearchitect

Happy New Year and welcome to the final episode of season four (4)! We're wrapping up the season with a conversation featuring the incredible Peter D. Cook, FAIA, NOMA. In this episode, we talk about his remarkable lineage, his role in shaping DC's architectural landscape, and his work at The Contemplative Site at Monticello. We also discuss the importance of community engagement, the challenges architecture students face, and his contributions to DC’s public spaces, including libraries. It’s the perfect close to a long season. Peter D. Cook, FAIA, NOMA is a Design Principal and Vice President with HGA, a position he has held since joining the firm in 2017. A graduate of Harvard College and Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, he is a nationally recognized architect based in Washington DC with a portfolio of award-winning art, community and educational projects demonstrating versatility with a variety of sites, typologies and scales. Common among them is his approach that values the establishment of a strong, personal connection with client and stakeholders, the result of deep listening and empathy. A direct descendant of Julian F. Abele (1881-1950), one of the nation’s most celebrated and accomplished African-American architects, Peter served as one of the three lead design collaborators for the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. Peter was appointed in 2021 by President Joseph Biden to serve as a member of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts and was elevated in 2022 as a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects. He has also served for over 20 years as a Peer for the U.S. General Services Administration Design Excellence program. Peter continues to be engaged with many community-based institutions including serving on the Board of Directors at the Washington Architectural Foundation, the Board of Trustees at the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, and as a past Vice President of the National Organization of Minority Architects.

Can you believe its been 10 years? In this special episode, we’re taking a heartfelt trip down memory lane to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Equity by Design (EQxD). We discuss the origins of EQxD, from the “Missing 32%” initiative to the “Architect Barbie” campaign, and reflect on how a small AIA San Francisco committee grew into a national movement fueled by surveys and power poses. Annelise Pitts AIA, Ántonia Bowman AIA, Rosa T. Sheng FAIA, Lilian Asperin, AIA, and Julia Mandell, AIA open up about their personal journeys, emphasizing the importance of connection, support, and relentless advocacy in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for architects. Show Notes Women in Architecture Series (2013) Caitlin’s Podcast- Architectette Ántonia Bowman, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, Assoc. DBIA is a Senior Associate at ELS. She joined the firm in 2017 and is a licensed architect in California and Texas. A core team member of AIA San Francisco’s Equity by Design, Ántonia is an advocate for greater visibility and equitable opportunities for women, LGBTQ+, people of color, and others who are underrepresented in the profession. She received a Master of Architecture from The University of Texas at Austin and a B.A. in Studio Art from Smith College. Annelise Pitts, AIA, Associate at Shepley Bulfinch is a passionate designer, facilitator, and advocate for justice, equity, diversity and inclusion in the built environment. In her role as a design strategist with LENS, a design strategy, research, and innovation practice group within Shepley Bulfinch, Annelise offers participatory visioning and planning, change management, and organizational development services, collaborating with clients to develop holistic responses to purpose-aligned issues at the heart of the design experience — sustainability & resilience, health and wellness, and justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Rosa T. Sheng, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C is a Vice-President at SmithGroup serving multiple roles as Higher Education Studio Leader in Northern California and national Director of Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion. After founding Equity by Design [EQxD] in 2014, Rosa served as AIA San Francisco President in 2018, the first Asian American Women to serve in the organization’s 136 year history. Recognized as an industry thought leader, architect, strategist, and advocate, she is known for developing new processes and design solutions with transformational impact in the built environment. Lilian Asperin, AIA is a partner at WRNS Studio, where she helps lead the design process and build teams that deliver aspirational outcomes. Serving as an At-Large Director of the Board of the Society for College and University Planning (SCUP), Lilian continues the work she started with the Pacific Regional Council where she has led workshops and conversations investigating equity, well-being, evolving learn/work modalities, and innovative project delivery models. Committed to advancing the practice of architecture, Lilian has also served as a Board Director of AIA San Francisco and is the Co-Chair of the Equity by Design Committee, a call to action for equitable practice and to communicate the value of design to society. Julia Mandell, AIA is an experienced architect and planner with broad project experience in architecture, urban design and landscape design. Currently practicing with Wilson Associates, a design/build/development firm in Oakland, California, Julia work includes the design of spaces for living, working, eating and making, with a focus on adaptive reuse. Julia also currently serves as the Co-Chair of Equity by Design, working to increase access to the field of architecture and promote equitable outcomes throughout the architectural process. She received her Masters of Architecture from Rice University and her Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Columbia University. She is a licensed architect in the state of California.

Corey Shaw, Jr is a DC native with lifelong roots in Ward 7 and is the Director of the DC Legacy Project . As a graduate of both Anacostia Senior High School and the University of the District of Columbia (UDC). In this episode, we explore the intersection of land ownership, reparations and architecture in Washington, DC. Corey shares how he was influenced by his family's legacy and the civil rights movement. He highlights poignant stories, such as those of Captain George Pointer, the Harris family and Chevy Chase. Shaw has a passion for comprehending the needs of communities and helping them advocate and mobilize for structural change. Become an insider by supporting the show at https://glow.fm/archispolly where you can support the show on a recurring or one-time basis!

In this episode, we delve into Dr. Craig L. Wilkins', RA journey as a writer, focusing on his book, "The Aesthetics of Equity," which sheds light on the challenges faced by Black professionals. Dr. Wilkins candidly shares the hurdles he faced in getting his book published, revealing the perseverance required amidst rejections. Joined by journalist Kelly Beamon, the conversation explores the dynamics of journalism in architecture, highlighting barriers to visibility for Black architects and advocating for media to move beyond tokenism towards genuine recognition of their contributions. A 2020 Bradford Grant Medal in Landscape Architecture awardee, 2017 Smithsonian Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum National Design Award recipient, architect, artist, academic, and activist, Dr. Craig L. Wilkins’ creative practice specializes in engaging communities in collaborative and participatory design processes. The former director of the Detroit Community Design Center, he is currently creative director of the Wilkins project, a social justice, strategic design alliance that provides architectural, urban design and planning services, public interest design solutions, and expertise in engaged public discourse. A frequently published critic and scholar of the public realm, Dr. Wilkins is also the author of multi-award winning “The Aesthetics of Equity: Notes on Race, Space, Architecture & Music” (University of Minnesota 2007) and “Diversity Among Architects: From Margin to Center” (Routledge 2016). He is currently an associate professor at the University of Michigan College of Architecture and Urban Planning, where he teaches courses on design and social justice. @drclw on all the social things...

In this podcast episode, Tiffany Millner, an architect and author of 200 Something, recounts her professional journey, detailing her struggles in traditional architecture firms and her eventual shift towards a more rewarding career. She discusses the pressures of becoming a licensed architect, the challenges of being a black female in the industry, and her creative pursuits in photography and graphic design. Tiffany's story is one of resilience, emphasizing the importance of fulfillment and belonging in one's work. Tiffany Millner is originally from Linden, New Jersey, and received her bachelor’s in architecture from Temple University. After graduation, she started working at well-established architecture firms and began her quest to change the world, by bringing order to chaos. Millner founded the design consultancy AUX Collective, LLC, in 2010 and devoted her energy as a consultant in various professional capacities including - architectural & graphic design, website development, community engagement and photography services, with a focus on non-profits and artist development. To amplify her voice and increase her audience, Millner self-published a book called 200 Something. The title alludes to the fact that when she became a registered architect in 2009, she was only 1 of about 200 African American female architects in the nation. Tiffany is the recipient of AIA Philadelphia’s 2021 Thomas U. Walter Award for her contributions to the design and construction industry on local and national levels, and her dedication to community service and advocacy. She grew a nationally known mentoring affiliate into one of the most successful in the country by providing opportunities for young people interested in a career in architecture, construction, and/or engineering. Millner continues to work on both local and national levels, broadening her reach as a social Impact developer and advocate for the architectural profession. In 2023, Temple University recognized her as a distinguished Aluma for her career-long efforts in transforming the profession of architecture and awarded her seat within the Gallery of Success. Currently, on the local level, she focuses on leveraging professional networks to provide support to historically under-invested communities post-development and provide opportunities and pathways to develop generational wealth for those underrepresented in real estate development and the design & construction industry. On the national level, she strategizes the transformation of practice culture with regards to infusing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in the workplace and by authentically supporting the recruitment, development, and retention of those currently underrepresented in the architecture profession. Become an insider by supporting the show at https://glow.fm/archispolly where you can support the show on a recurring or one-time basis! 🎧 Looking for your next favorite podcast? Join Architecture is Political as we dive deep into conversations with black and brown folks about architecture. 🔔 Don't forget to hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode! And if you enjoy what you hear, please consider leaving us a review. 🌟 Follow us on ⁠Instagram⁠!

Garfield Peart, MBA, AIA, NOMA is a testament to the power of education, discipline, and passion in shaping one's career and making a positive impact on the community. He is a retired Air Force veteran, father, Christian and practicing architect from Jamaica. Garfield's story is a testament to the transformative power of education, discipline, and passion. Beyond his successful architecture career, he is dedicated to mentoring the next generation through SPIKE Studio, a 501(c)(3) organization committed to addressing key issues affecting the future of Atlanta's youth in terms of education and career readiness. Working at Moody Nolan’s Atlanta studio has allowed Garfield to use his knowledge and resources to make a positive impact on both the local community level and communities across the country. Since the firm's growth and expansion to 12 offices around the country, Garfield expresses his excitement about being part of an organization that is evolving into a national practice while preserving a midwestern family-like culture. Become an insider by supporting the show at https://glow.fm/archispolly where you can support the show on a recurring or one-time basis! 🎧 Looking for your next favorite podcast? Join Architecture is Political as we dive deep into conversations with black and brown folks about architecture. 🔔 Don't forget to hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode! And if you enjoy what you hear, please consider leaving us a review. 🌟 Follow us on Instagram!

In this episode, we delve into the architectural world with Wynord Thomas Jr., an Associate at CO Architects. With a diverse background spanning higher education, K-12, retail, civic, and mixed-use projects, Wynord is known for his direct approach to addressing present and future challenges, particularly emphasizing sustainability, technology, and science. As a steadfast designer and emerging team leader, he has earned the trust and respect of clients, contractors, and project teams. Wyn is currently engaged in the multi-phased, 263,000-square-foot John H. Francis Polytechnic Senior High School Comprehensive Modernization project, involving significant new construction and core facility upgrades. His impressive portfolio also includes notable projects like the Pearl Innovation District in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the Health Professions Education Building in Los Angeles.

Cory Henry, Principal and Founder of Atelier Cory Henry closes out the INTERSECTIONS series with the question of whether design should reflect culture, history and community concerns. Throughout this episode, Cory provides insights into his ongoing projects, notably highlighting the Freedom Center in Oklahoma City, a building restoration used by civil rights activist Clara Luper as well as the food insecurity Harvard GSD course called The Paradox of Hunger – Rural Mississippi. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of inclusive decision-making processes in infrastructure projects, particularly in relation to public transportation. Atelier Cory Henry, an award-winning Los Angeles-based design studio led by Cory Henry, is renowned for its socially conscious and research-driven approach to design. Henry's work spans various scales and project types across continents, earning him recognition from organizations like the Royal Society of Arts in the UK and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) as an emerging talent in the field. He also boasts a notable academic career, having twice received the prestigious title of KEA Distinguished Professor from the University of Maryland School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation. His educational journey includes teaching roles at Harvard University Graduate School of Design, the University of Pennsylvania Stuart Weitzman School of Design, Syracuse University, the University of Maryland, Penn State University, and the University of Southern California. Cory Henry's academic background features a Master of Architecture from Cornell University and a Bachelor of Architecture from Drexel University.

Designers can draw inspiration from various elements, including artworks, photographs, or even the human emotions and stories that reside behind each project. This allows for a more profound and meaningful experience, as the design connects with its audience on a deeper level. Similarly, examining how other aspects of design, like performances and stage design, can offer valuable insights for memorial designers. In the AIP podcast, host Melissa Daniel and Christina Sturdivant Sani, native, wife, and mother, known for her exceptional work in esteemed publications like the Washington Post and CityLab, discusses Rihanna's halftime show at the 2023 Super Bowl, focusing on the design of the performance set. We also discuss the MLK Memorial design competition and how "The Embrace," underwent noticeable transformations from its initial rendering to its final design. Curbed Online The 5 Proposals For The MLK Memorial On Boston Common Rhianna Half Time Show Perron-Roettinger Scratching the Surface Podcast with Willo Perron Christina Sturdivant Sani is a proud Washington, D.C. native and prolific freelance journalist. As Editorial Director and Co-founder of Bloc By Block News, she oversees the production of website, newsletter, and social media content. A former staff writer at DCist, Christina wrote more than 1,600 breaking news stories on politics, transportation, education, policing, food, and entertainment, among other topics. Many of her feature stories highlighted Black life and culture in D.C. and investigated issues related to marginalized communities east of the Anacostia River. She’s written a half dozen cover stories for Washington City Paper and has freelanced for nearly two dozen publications including The Washington Post, Washingtonian Magazine, Zagat, PBS, and CityLab. She studied print journalism at Hampton University. You’re likely to spot her working remotely at your favorite D.C.-area coffee shop. Twitter @christurdisani