The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)

The CMU chapter of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) creates a connection between students and the professional and academic world of architecture by offering members a diverse set of events and experiences including firm visits, local and national networking opportunities, community service build initiatives, and exposure to cutting edge developments within the field of architecture.

Vice President
Gloria Lee

Professional Development Coordinator
David Warfel

Committee Engagement Chair
Camila Martinez

Graduate Student Liaison
Natasha Fernandez

First Year Student Liaison
Ali Sadi

Treasurer
Ashley Jauregui

Outreach Programming Coordinator
Mikayla Gee

Public Relations
Starr Wasler
Ryan Shen

Freedom by Design™ (FBD)

Freedom by Design™ (FBD) is a community service program of AIAS that uses the talents of architecture students to radically impact the lives of people in their community through modest design and construction solutions. The CMU chapter of AIAS has an FBD program that provides students with real-world experience through working with clients, learning from local licensed architects and contractors, and experiencing the practical impacts of architecture and design. The chapter’s signature outreach program is the Weatherization Kit project, a box of items that helps Pittsburgh residents prepare their homes for winter.

FBD Directors
Gabrielle Benson
Hannah Haytko-Desalvo

FBD Advisor
TBD

National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS)

In alignment with the mission of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), the CMU chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS) focuses on creating safe spaces for minority and underrepresented students in the School of Architecture. The organization provides a community of purpose for students by championing diversity, advocating for an education that considers the socioeconomic consequences of design, and connecting students to minority professionals in the field. Connect with the Pittsburgh chapter of NOMA to learn about upcoming events, meetings, and workshops.

CMU NOMAS President
Akanksha Tayal (B.Arch ‘25)

CMU NOMAS Advisor
TBD

Architecture Peer Mentors (APM)

Architecture Peer Mentors (APM) connects first-year students with upperclassmen to encourage a community of mentorship, learning, and inter-year collaboration. Mentors assist students in their transition into the School of Architecture, establishing an early, mutually beneficial relationship.

Graduate Student Assembly Committee (GSAC)

The Graduate Student Assembly Committee (GSAC) is the student body that represents School of Architecture graduate students. GSAC oversees the planning and funding of graduate social events and offers programs that benefit School of Architecture graduate students. Representatives meet regularly with the GSAC advisor and School Head over the course of the semester to address the concerns of graduate students and develop solutions. School of Architecture graduate students are invited to speak with their representatives about the changes they would like to see in their programs or facilities.

GSAC liaisons to the Carnegie Mellon Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) advocate on behalf of School of Architecture to the greater GSA network, connecting students with opportunities and funding. Campus wide, GSA and departmental committees strive to improve academic support and collegiate activities for graduate students.

GSAC Advisor
Alison Petrucci