Roberta Washington facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Roberta Washington
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|---|---|
| Nationality | American |
| Alma mater | Howard University Columbia University |
| Occupation | Architect |
| Practice | Roberta Washington Architects |
Roberta Washington is a famous American architect. She started her own company, Roberta Washington Architects, in 1983. At that time, it was rare for an African-American woman to lead an architecture company in the United States. She helped protect important buildings in New York City as a Commissioner for the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission from 2007 to 2015. She also led the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) in 1997 and helps manage its foundation.
Becoming an Architect
Roberta Washington studied architecture at two well-known universities. She earned her first architecture degree from Howard University in 1970. She then got her master's degree in architecture from Columbia University in 1971.
She received a special scholarship to Columbia University. This scholarship was given to 25 African-American students after student protests happened on campus in 1968. After finishing her studies, she worked for four years in Mozambique. There, she helped design hospitals and housing projects.
Working with Other Architects
During her time in college, Roberta Washington was active in groups like the Women's Caucus at the American Institute of Architects. She also joined the Alliance of Women in Architecture. Meeting other architects helped her realize how important it was to remember the work of Black people and women in architecture.
Since 1997, she has been researching and writing about other amazing architects. These include Beverly Loraine Greene and Georgia Louise Harris Brown. She wants to make sure their stories are not forgotten.
Community Work
Roberta Washington also helps her community. In 2021, she joined the board of directors for the Society of Architectural Historians. She is also a director and treasurer for the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) Foundation.
She is a member of the Board of Directors for Save Harlem Now. She also served on Community Board 10 in Central Harlem. On this board, she led the Housing Committee and co-led the Land Use Committee.
