Women represent less than 25% of licensed architects in the United States and African American women represent less than 1%. The Matriarchitect is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. On January 1, 2012, I married Len Kamdang and became Stepmom to Maia. In March of 2013, Leila was added to the family and completely turned my life upside down. She was full term but born at 5 3/4″ pounds which meant that I was feeding her around the clock to get her weight on the charts. While I continued to pursue my licensure, I pumped in print closets while redlining documents and following-up on emails. Architecture is one of the oldest professions, but continues to be one of the least progressive for women and people of color.
As a U.S. Fulbright Scholar Grantee (2018-2019), I will be researching indigenous architecture in Taiwan to broaden the lens of the profession.
My experience spans architecture, planning, exhibit design, industrial design, and interior design. One of the projects that I am most proud of is the Smithsonian Institute National Museum of African American History and Culture. I specifically focused on the space plans from early concept to design development for the Slavery & Freedom Gallery. My most flattering compliments on my work is to hear the commentary from strangers on how they were emotionally moved from their experience in this gallery.
While living in Washington, DC, I worked in the Planning Department and the Interior Design Department at the United States Department of State Overseas Buildings Operations. I worked in both the interior design and planning department for strategic planning, design, development, and construction of United States Embassies overseas.
As an educator at Pratt Institute, I have taught courses in Color and Materials as well as Design Studios. My current coursework is under the new direction of the Provost’s office new initiative to incorporate interdisciplinary coursework into the curriculum. I’ve designed two custom courses on social responsibility and design’s impact on rapid neighborhood transition and spatial environments. When I return from Taipei, my research will be customized and integrated into the coursework.
While at PennDesign, I facilitated and organized the Unspoken Borders Conference, which is a symposium that has generated a dialogue on under-representation issues of race in the design professions. I have a Master of Fine Arts degree from George Washington University and a Master of Architecture from University of Pennsylvania School of Design. I also have a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration and Marketing from Georgetown University. I am a Registered Architect, Certified Interior Designer, and LEED Accredited Professional, but my most rewarding title is Mom.
