SCI-Arc NOMAS Chapter Shares Extraordinary Work at National Design Conference

SCI-Arc is pleased to share that students from the institute’s NOMAS (National Organization of Minority Architecture Students) Chapter took part in the Student Design Competition at this year’s NOMA Conference, entitled “Building Bridges." Project leads Gabriela Arevalo and Sara González, and well as Ray Vista, Salma Osuna, India Chand, Acacia Li, and Youssef Hachchane presented their work for consideration at the conference, which was held October 11-15 in Portland, Oregon.

The mission of NOMAS is to promote justice and equity in communities of color through various means, including outreach, community advocacy, professional development, and design excellence. Through participating in this convergence of architectural visionaries, trailblazers, and forward-thinkers at the NOMA Conference, SCI-Arc students were able to contribute to “shap[ing] a more inclusive, welcoming, and awe-inspiring future.”

"In a world fraught with challenges, our students stand as a united force, fiercely pursuing greatness,” shared William Virgil, Making+Meaning Coordinator and SCI-Arc NOMAS advisor. “They're not just architecture students but exemplars of dedication, resilience, and the belief that their passion is the catalyst for shaping our future.”

Said Gonzalez of leading the team this year: “[It] was a great experience. Through creativity, collaboration, and a lot of hard work we were able to create a project I can truly say I’m proud of. This project taught me about what it means to have the community reflected in a building... I’m so grateful to have had this experience working with the team, researching, learning, and collaborating to produce not only a beautiful work of architecture but a place of specific meaning for a specific community.”

“If I could summarize this year’s competition in one word, it would be ‘empowering,’” continued Arevalo. “We collectively learned how architecture can truly have an impact on underrepresented communities… [which] is a testament to what can be achieved when a team of talented architecture students collaborate and combine the power of creativity and innovation in architecture.”

“Let this inspire all, a testament to what can be achieved when passion and perseverance converge,” Virgil concluded. “Our students are not just architects in training but architects of a brighter future. Join us in celebrating their journey and dedication to shaping the world."

To learn more about the NOMAS annual conference visit the organization webpage.