St. Louis NOMA
National Organization of Minority Architects
In keeping with the goals of The National Organization Of Minority Architects( NOMA) an the growth of a group of minority practitioners and professional architects in the St. Louis area, Richard Franklin the Regional Midwest Director for NOMA in 1980 held a series of meetings to see about the possibility of forming a local St. Louis chapter.
In July of 1980, the future members of the local chapter of The National Organization of Minority Architects
(NOMA) had met several times with the purpose of establishing an organization in St. Louis that could address the concerns of minority professionals and function as a forum for issues and continuing education of its members. There were at those beginning meetings, members who were extremely important in establishing the first constitution of this organization. Bill Watkins, David Mason, Russell Lewis, Richard Atkins and John
Mc Swain helps establish the ground work for the new chapter. Other members included Jimmie Tucker and
Ezell Blanchard, who helped developed the By-Laws and established an outline of basic programs.
The infancy of the chapter was a very difficult one, one in which membership fluctuated up down and participation varied from month to month. Yet, a hard-core nucleus of members determined to keep the organization intact. The energy of Gleda Smith, the drive of James Smith and consistant support of numerous
members saw the chapter through the beginning.
From the beginning, there was a distinction from St. Louis Chapter and national in terms of composition of membership. St. Louis had a large number of professionals and very few number practitioners. The needs of the local chapter were different from that of the national and the focus had to be on advancing the professional levels of membership; aiding professional awareness; and preparing local members for development of practices or advancement in various corporate offices.
During this period, the Chicago chapter provided guidance and support. A beginning mailing list of about fourteen potential members was established and later grew to forty potential members.
The election of the first slate of officers was selected in 1981. John Mc Swain was elected the President. The chapters during this period focus on membership; educational seminars and establishment of a newsletter.
After the 1981 NOMA national convention, the St. Louis chapter was selected to host the 1982 National Convention.
In 1982 under the leadership of Russell Lewis, the St.Louis chapter focused on preparing for the National Noma Convention and strengthening of the local chapter.
By the late 80’s and 90’s the local chapter went idle until early in 2006. Quickly, the chapter has resurged and is growing rapidly.
Through the diversity of its membership, St. Louis NOMA will continue bring a unique voice to this region by creating ideas to bridge the gaps within our profession, environment and community.
- NOMA National Conference & Exhibition
- Millenium Hotel (Downtown)
- St. Louis, Missouri
- October 8-10, 2009
- REGISTER
SPONSORS
