Who We Are
Cornell NOMAS is the Cornell University Student Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), a national organization founded in 1971 to support and advocate for the advancement of underrepresented professionals in architecture and the built environment. Since 1992, Cornell NOMAS has served as a critical platform for mentorship, academic excellence, professional development, and community engagement within the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning. We are committed to promoting equity, representation, and culturally responsive design while preparing students to become leaders who shape a more just and inclusive profession.
The National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) was founding in 1971 by 12 black architects who understood it was necessary to create an organization dedicated to the development and advancement of minority architects, specifically for African Americans.
NOMA and NOMAS has worked to promote and uplift minority designers at both the professional and academic level.
Our Story
NOMAs began at Cornell in 1992 under the direction of diversity affairs advisor Ray Dalton. His efforts to diversify the architecture department successfully brought more black and latino students into the program.
Many students from this period have continued on to be a part of NOMA, with Kimberly Dowdell ‘06 acting as the new president of the organization. A recent article highlighting alumnus Sekou Cooke’s ‘99 hip hop architecture exhibit highlights the importance of NOMAS at Cornell and beyond.
As an organization, we strive to create a community that supports minority students not only architecture but also design related careers.
We serve as a resource for the voices that speak against apathy, bigotry, violence, intolerance, and ignorance. We work toward empowering all marginalized and disenfranchised through their own design expertise.
Our Mission
The goals of our organization are:
Empowerment through Representation
Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the architectural discipline by uplifting underrepresented voices and fostering leadership among students of color.
Academic Excellence and Exchange
Support intellectual growth through collaborative learning and engagement with architectural research, theory, and design practice led by minority architects.
Mentorship and Community Building
Cultivate a supportive network that connects students, faculty, alumni, and professionals to provide guidance, shared experience, and a sense of belonging at AAP and the broader design community.
Professional Growth and Opportunity
Prepare members for success in the profession through workshops, internships, career development initiatives, and exposure to diverse pathways in architecture and related fi elds.
Partnership and Outreach
Strengthen relationships with institutions, fi rms, and communities beyond Cornell to expand opportunities for collaboration, advocacy, and social impact.
