Advice for Surviving the Downturn

The American Institute of Architects features several articles to help firms and practitioners make it through these sluggish times. See Navigating the Economy.

Roger Margerum presents “Modernist Impressions” - Students Welcome

NOMAD cordially invites all students interested in the architecture profession and practicing professionals to attend a Detroit Community Outreach event with NOMAD’s Lifetime Achievement recipient, Detroit architect, Roger Margerum. Mr. Margerum will present the lecture "Modernist Impressions."

Who: All interested high school students and practicing professionals

When: Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Where: Kettering High School DPS, 6101 Van Dyke, Detroit, MI 48213

Agenda:

12:00 noon - 1:00 p.m. - "Modernist Impressions" lecture

1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. - 30 min. Tour + Design discussion

1:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. - Students + Architects "One on One" - Lunch provided

An African-American Architect who graduated from the University of Illinois in 1955 with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Roger started his career working with some of the most prestigious architectural firms in the country designing modern community centers, churches, businesses and schools. He has also played an instrumental role in spearheading joint venture projects with other minority architects in Detroit.

Mr. Margerum later decided to start his own firm with locations in Detroit and Chicago where he continued to have a long successful career spanning half a century, receiving numerous honors for his work within the profession.

At an early age Roger developed an interest in art and drawing and was enrolled in weekend classes at the Art Institute of Chicago. It was at the Institute were he practiced and developed his skills and passion for his craft. During this time he was exposed to various influences, particularly painter Georges-Pierre Seurat and his masterpiece "Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." Another influence was African-American football player Buddy Young. Both influences served as an inspiration that has guided Roger throughout his life to challenge the boundaries of the ordinary and strive for excellence under adversity.

The lecture, facilty tour, and lunch are co-sponsored by the Detroit Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects, the Board of Education of the City of Detroit, Hamilton Anderson Associates Architects, and the American Institute of Architects Continuing Education System.

NOMA Conference Begins Today in D.C.

The National Organization of Minority Architects begins its 36th International Conference and Exposition today. The Conference runs through October 4th. There will be workshops and seminars for professionals and students, a jury of professional designs, a student design competition, and an exhibit entitled "2% Women of Color," highlighting that population of the architecture profession.