Matthew Trotter Appointed SoCal NOMA President

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Matthew Trotter NOMA Induction

Cuningham Associate Matthew Trotter has been named President of SoCal NOMA

The largest chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), SoCal NOMA is a professional organization focused on the enrichment and advancement of architects and designers of color. The 360-plus members are talented architects, designers, faculty, and students, specializing in various area of the built environment.

“Going into 2025, I am excited to reenergize SoCal NOMA’s professional programs and focus by putting design excellence at the forefront, increasing collaborations with partner organizations, and connecting with and celebrating small and emerging design businesses of color,” Matthew says.

 

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SoCal NOMA 2025 Board
Matthew with the other members of the SoCal NOMA 2025 Executive Board, inducted during the organization’s 2024 Holiday Party. From left: Nick Awori, Leonardo Sanchez, Matthew Trotter, Angela Ball, Shota Ban, Craig Atkinson, Carla Flagg.

 

Matthew has long been involved with SoCal NOMA, from planning and running the organization’s annual Summer Camp to serving on its Executive Board from 2017-2021, during which time he founded the Developing Professional Group—empowering minority design professionals to reach licensure by providing mentoring, educational seminars, study materials, and financial aid. Most recently, Matthew served as the SoCal Chapter’s First Vice President for 2024.

“Congratulations to Matthew Trotter on his appointment as President of SoCal NOMA,” Cuningham CEO Nathan Harris says. “Matthew’s dedication to fostering opportunities, mentorship, and design excellence is the standard to which our industry should aspire. His leadership and vision will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of architects and further SoCal NOMA’s mission to create a more inclusive and vibrant future for our profession.”
 

“As SoCal NOMA President, I’m excited to channel my passion for people and design in a way that makes space for honest, meaningful dialog and outcomes.” 

Matthew Trotter, AIA, NOMA

Cuningham Associate, SoCal NOMA President

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SoCal NOMA Summer Camp
Matthew teaching at the SoCal NOMA Architecture Summer Camp.

Matthew participated in the planning and execution of the SoCal NOMA Summer Camp for seven years. This four-day camp for those aged 10-18, is designed to expose youth to the built environment and architectural profession. As one of the few initiatives in the nation connecting youth and architecture, the camp introduces youth to the essential elements of design, promoting a potential career and vocation in the field. Learn more.

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Developing Professionals ARE Prep Event
Cuningham hosts the Developing Professionals ARE Prep Event.

When Matthew previously served on the SoCal NOMA Executive Board from 2016 to 2021, he founded the Developing Professional Group. The group was formed in response to struggles faced by those pursuing licensure as a minority in the field and offers comprehensive resources and mentorship to aid its member’s journey to becoming certificate holders. Learn more. 

Learn more about SoCal NOMA and read Matthew’s 2025 Chapter President’s Letter

“A huge congrats to Matthew Trotter on becoming President of SoCal NOMA. We’re so proud of his commitment to elevating design excellence, expanding opportunities for minority architects, and building a strong community in SoCal where everyone can share ideas and tackle challenges together.”

Lynn Orosco

Cuningham People Team

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Cuningham Team at the NOMA Conference
Cuningham's team at the NOMA Conference.
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Matthew volunteering at the NOMA Conference
Matthew volunteering at the NOMA Conference.

Cuningham and NOMA

Cuningham is honored to be an ongoing partner and supporter of NOMA and is a Chapter Partner for SoCal NOMA. As a member of the AIA Large Firm Roundtable, Cuningham has partnered with NOMA to champion efforts that increase the number of minority licensed architects across the country and has been a participating member of the NOMA Foundation Fellowship.

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Matthew Trotter

Author: Matthew Trotter

Posted In: People