Feeling the lack of representation of minority architects in Connecticut and realizing the importance of highlighting their work in the national architectural industry, energetic members of Connecticut’s architectural community gathered together to begin the process of establishing a Connecticut based chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA). For nearly five decades, NOMA has strived for its mission to “champion diversity within the design professions by promoting the excellence, community engagement, and professional development of its members.” Prior to recent developments, the University of Hartford NOMA Students Chapter was home to the only nationally recognized NOMA chapter in the state of Connecticut, but thanks to the leading efforts of Omarys Vasquez of Svigals & Partners, Jose Hernandez of Newman Architects, as well as the collaborative efforts of Daniel T. King (Kenneth Boroson Architects), Maria Khan (Friar Architecture), Max Ballardo (Patriquin Architects), Brian Gonzalez (Patriquin Architects), Paolo Campos (Patriquin Architects), Linda Blaszka (Newman Architects), Ghalia Ajouz (Newman Architects), Melody Iannone (University of Hartford), Amy Ray (Newman Architects), and Alicia Washington (HRP Associates), NOMACT will join the growing list of professional groups representing minority architects in their state under the umbrella of NOMA.
