LTU CoAD’s Distinguished Architecture Alumni Award

LTU CoAD’s Distinguished Architecture Alumni Award

LTU CoAD is thrilled to announce that the DAAA committee has chosen Tiffany Brown as the recipient of the 28th annual LTU Distinguished Architecture Alumni Award! Join us in congratulating Tiffany as she becomes part of an elite group of LTU’s College of Architecture Alumni.

Tiffany Brown: The Architecture of Change

Tiffany Brown’s accomplishments lie not only in her architectural projects but also in her transformative leadership, advocacy for inclusive practice, and commitment to uplifting the next generation while transforming the built environment.

A presentation on her career journey is more than a personal story—it’s a catalyst for change. It highlights personal experiences and provides practical solutions to remove barriers in design. It inspires both individuals and organizations to build a more inclusive and dynamic future for architecture. Tiffany will share real-world examples of successful programs and initiatives (like 400 Forward) and offer a blueprint for other firms and organizations to do the same. She will discuss how adopting these strategies can help remove barriers to entry and advancement, ensuring more equitable opportunities and a stronger, more diverse profession.

The Lawrence Technological University DAA Award is given annually in recognition of the recipient’s professional, academic, and personal achievements including:

• Local, national, and international professional accomplishments
• Support of the College of Architecture and Design
• Charitable, volunteer, and community service

In addition to our professional DAA Award, the CoAD DAA Scholarship winner is James Hoppe.

This public Lecture and Award Presentation Reception / Exhibit will be held at Lawrence Technological University’s College of Architecture and Design Campus. Tiffany’s talk will also be livestreamed.

CoAD Freshman, this event counts towards your Experience Passport.

CEU: This lecture equals 1 professional architecture credit towards licensure requirements. ​​

Please note that LTU is not a registered AIA CE provider. By virtue of having a NAAB-accredited architecture program, the State of Michigan authorizes LTU to offer continuing education credit. A list of state-approved HSW subjects can be found on their licensing website by searching the page for ‘HSW subjects for continuing education’.

As part of CoAD’s Design x Technology Lecture Series, this lecture is free and open to the public. Guests may watch online or on campus. Register for the location/viewing details.

ABOUT: Tiffany Brown, MBA, NOMA, Assoc. AIA, brings nearly 20 years of experience in architecture and leadership to her role as Executive Director of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), where she drives the organization’s strategic vision and operations. With two degrees in architecture and an MBA from Lawrence Technological University, Tiffany combines design expertise with business acumen—skills that have helped her secure funding, negotiate partnerships, and advocate for equity in the profession. Her extensive experience in the industry bridges design and implementation, managing complex projects with a focus on community impact.

She is the founder of 400 Forward, an initiative empowering the next generation of women architects, and has been recognized by Architizer’s 100 Women to Watch and the American Institute of Architects for her leadership expertise and visionary approach, Tiffany aims to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders, architects, and designers, ensuring the industry reflects the voices and needs of all communities. In recognition of her influence, Tiffany has received numerous awards and honors, including the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service from the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. These accolades reflect her standing as a respected leader and a source of inspiration for her peers.

Tiffany has gained valuable professional experience with Hamilton Anderson Associates and SmithGroup, two nationally recognized design firms that shaped her perspective and position in architecture. A passionate leader in the profession, Tiffany has spearheaded raising awareness on how representation makes a significant social impact on firm practice, culture, education, and design thinking. She is a sought-after expert frequently speaking at national events including South by Southwest, and is featured in ESSENCE Magazine, AIA+Architect Magazine and Architectural Record.