The five-day event featured talks from architects Toshiko Mori and Nina Cooke John and artist Olalekan Jeyifous, and marked the announcement of the organization’s first international chapter in the U.K.

Now held in 31 cities nationwide, the summer camps introduce BIPOC middle- and high-schoolers to the fields of architecture and design.

The 51^st annual conference, with the theme “Unplugged,” offered education and networking sessions, along with opportunities to explore the city.

Dowdell, who will be the first Black woman to serve in the role, spoke to RECORD about her aspirations for the organization and the importance of advocating for architects.

Older candidates for licensure, as well as Black women, report the least satisfactory on-the-job training.