History:
Twelve African-American architects from different parts of the country met, some for the first time, during the AIA National Convention in Detroit in 1971. What these professionals recognized was the desperate need for an organization dedicated to the development and advancement of minority architects. Today, NOMA consists of 36 chapters and over 3,000 members internationally.

 

STLNOMA is a non-for-profit chapter of the national organization. Our aim in the St. Louis community is to provide a source of networking for architectural professionals; to promote professional development; to provide mentorship among working professionals and architecture students, to provide guidance to young people exploring the field.

 

Mission: 
The National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) mission is to champion diversity within the design professions by promoting the excellence, community engagement, and professional development of its members.​

 

Objectives:
Foster communications and fellowship among minority architects

Form a federation of existing and proposed local minority architectural groups
 

Fight Discrimination and other selection policies being used by public and private sector clients to unfairly restrict minority architects' participation in design and construction
 

Act as a clearing house for information and maintain a roster on practitioners
 

Promote the design and development of living, working, and recreational environments of the highest quality
 

Create and maintain relationships with other professionals and technicians whose work affects the physical and social environment
 

Encourage the establishment of coalitions of member firms and individuals to form associate and joint venture relationships;
 

Speak with a common voice on public policy;
 

Work with local, state, and national governments on issues affecting the physical development of neighborhoods and communities;
 

Be an effective source of motivation and inspiration for minority youth.