UDream + AIA National Webinar

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This engaging one-hour webinar is aimed specifically at AIA components and will feature a presentation followed by Q&A geared at determining how you can apply this model in your own component.
Visit https://tinyurl.com/AIAUDream to participate.

Join us to learn about a proven and dynamic model for increasing regional diversity and value within the architecture and built environment industry.
Passed overwhelmingly by AIA National membership in 2021, the “Promotion of the UDream Program” Resolution 21-3 seeks to explain not only the benefits that the UDream program has had on the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania region, but how this model can be applied in your own AIA component.

Carnegie Mellon University ran the UDream Program successfully for 8 years by pairing architecture graduates with intensive postgraduate training, mentorship opportunities at local high schools, and internships at Pittsburgh architecture firms. As a result, UDream is responsible for more than 85% of all Black and Hispanic Architecture graduate students at Carnegie Mellon University. Additionally, the city of Pittsburgh saw over a 400% increase in underrepresented minority representation in Architecture, with 40-63% remaining in Pittsburgh with permanent jobs at the end of the program each year.

Presenters:

Erica Cochran-Hameen PhD, Assoc. AIA, NOMA is the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the Co-Director of the Center for Building Performance and Diagnostics (CBPD), Track Chair of the Doctor of Design Program and an Assistant Professor at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) School of Architecture. Erica’s research is widely published and she leads global research projects focused on Equitable Sustainability, Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), energy efficiency, and energy policy.

Marc Mondor, AIA, Principal with evolveEA, AIA Pennsylvania 2020 President and Inaugural Chair of the AIA PA EDI Committee knows first hand the benefits that the UDream program has brought to the city of Pittsburgh and his firm, evolveEA.  Marc is pleased that the UDream  program created a win-win for his firm and for the region, giving promising interns relevant experience, while giving firms a depth that wouldn’t otherwise exist. 

Introduction by:

Ashley Cox, AICP, is an Associate at evolveEA.  Ashley leads collaborative processes to promote economic, environmental and social resilience. She is a skilled urban design project manager focused on planning for equitable communities and designing vibrant places. Ashley is a member of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and participated in the UDream program through Carnegie Mellon University in 2013.

Ann Dorough, CAE, AIA National Director, Component Engagement nurtures strategic partnerships in public, private and nonprofit sectors.