Marnique Heath, Board Chair of STUDIOS Architecture, Earns Elevation to AIA College of Fellows
Recognition bestowed for advancing the profession through civic stewardship, social awareness, and advocacy for underrepresented communities.
STUDIOS’ Board Chair and DC-based Principal, Marnique Heath, has been recognized as a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) College of Fellows, the highest membership honor for architects who have made significant contributions to the profession and society and exemplify architectural excellence. Only 3% of AIA members have this distinction.
While co-leading an international architecture firm, Marnique uses the power of her voice to lead change within the practice of architecture. As a Black woman, Marnique maintains a high level of civic responsibility and acts as a professional advocate for the underrepresented.
With her practice and civic leadership, Marnique’s work advances social change, creating a more equitable and inclusive society. Her lived experience compels her to lead with a sense of humanity and empathy, instilling the values of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in her work. She also reinforces climate justice as essential for equitable communities. She has developed and implemented governance structures, leadership opportunities, and professional growth resources nationally, putting into practice her vision of a workplace where all voices are heard and valued, and all employees have equitable opportunities for leadership.
“I have had the distinct pleasure of doing what I love every single day and to be recognized for that by the American Institute of Architects through an elevation to the College of Fellows is both an honor and a privilege,” said Marnique Heath, FAIA, reflecting on her achievement.
With a focus on the greater common good, at the appointment of Mayor Muriel Bowser, Marnique chairs the District of Columbia Historic Preservation Review Board, and she previously chaired the District of Columbia Board of Zoning Adjustment. Through this civic engagement, she elevates the work of architects from around the world in design reviews and critiques as she protects the cultural heritage of our Nation’s Capital. In addition, she amplifies the history of marginalized communities by creating new historic districts and landmarks, including Kingman Park Historic District and Barry Farm Historic District—both historically Black neighborhoods. Finally, she is known for her ability to merge divergent groups and interests to create an outcome where the voices of all stakeholders are evident.
As chair of STUDIOS’ Board of Directors, Marnique further expands her influence nationally. She leads over 250 colleagues in Washington, DC, New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Paris, and Lyon into a new generation of industry practice where diverse interests and backgrounds must be valued and represented to create inclusive places and communities.
Most recently, Marnique has led the transformation of the 200-year-old Franklin Park in downtown Washington, DC into an active, sustainable, and inclusive neighborhood-serving park fit for the 21st century, while seamlessly celebrating the park’s rich history. Presently, Marnique is leading the revitalization of the historic Bond Bread Factory and Washington Railway & Electric Company (WRECO) site for Howard University into a 600,000-square-foot mixed-use destination in the bustling Shaw neighborhood of Washington, DC.
