Why Become a Member?

1. Unity and belonging—Being linked with a group of like-minded individuals with shared/similar experiences.

2. Mentorship and professional development—Various professionals at different levels in their careers to share experiences, lessons learned, etc.

a. This could tie into professional mentorship but also mentorship with NOMAS chapters in Austin and San Antonio.

b. Motivation and Inspiration

c. Promote design development

d. Developing minority leaders e. Construction site tours (NOMAS partnership)

3. Activism and civic engagement—"Increasing the number of people in our organization adds strength to the voice that we can speak against apathy, bigotry, intolerance, ignorance, the unempowered, the marginalized and the disenfranchised.” Stole this from Houston NOMA.

a. Increase the level of participation in the social, political and economic benefits afforded the citizens of this nation and tear down barriers that make full participation unattainable.

b. Chapter gives members a base from which to be involved in politics, visit schools, reach out to the next generation of future architects, conduct community and civic forums and practice responsibly.

c. Project pipeline

4. Strength in numbers (Networking) —As the chapter grows, there will be more opportunities for potential professional collaboration. a. Network at a local and national level—professionally and socially

5. Seminars, publication, and continuing education— this might be a future benefit, but finding ways to incorporate presentations, CEUs, and other avenues to credits throughout the year. Do we get to a point where only paid members are able to be a part of certain seminars.

a. Texas Architect article—develop a showcase for what this chapter is doing at a state level and capture the voices of those on the front lines getting shit done (making things happen).

b. Access to ARE study material.