April MEMBER SPOTLIGHT 2026

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT | Maria (Julieta) Romero

Maria (Julieta) Romero, President of the Catholic University NOMAS

MARIA (JULIETA) ROMERO: STUDENT LEADER AND ADVOCATE

Maria (Julieta) Romero is an architecture student whose leadership reflects resilience, service, and a deep commitment to expanding representation within the design professions. A first-generation college student originally from Colombia, Maria is currently pursuing a degree in Architecture with a minor in Sustainability at The Catholic University of America.

As a full-tuition scholarship recipient, Maria’s academic journey is marked by both excellence and determination. Her interdisciplinary studies bridge architectural design and structural systems, positioning her to approach the built environment with both creative vision and technical depth. She was also featured as a student voice in the university’s Take Flight pre-orientation program, supporting first-generation students as they transition into higher education and navigate new academic spaces.

DEPTH OF LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE

Maria’s leadership on campus is both intentional and impactful. She currently serves as President of the Catholic University chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS), where she works to cultivate community, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for underrepresented students in architecture.

In addition to her role in NOMAS, Maria serves as Secretary of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) chapter and as an Architecture Catholic Ambassador. Through these leadership positions, she actively contributes to strengthening student engagement, promoting inclusive dialogue within design education, and creating pathways for emerging professionals.

Her work reflects a clear understanding that leadership in architecture extends beyond studio performance, it requires advocacy, representation, and a commitment to building supportive networks for those coming next.

ADVOCACY, REPRESENTATION & FUTURE IMPACT

As a first-generation scholar navigating architecture, Maria embodies the future of an increasingly interdisciplinary and inclusive profession. She is an emerging leader supporting pathways for historically underrepresented students, using her platform to elevate conversations around access, mentorship, and opportunity in the built environment.

Maria (Julieta) Romero represents a rising generation of design professionals who lead with purpose, academic rigor, and community awareness. DC NOMA is proud to spotlight her continued growth, leadership, and contributions to shaping a more equitable future in architecture.

DC NOMA is proud to recognize Maria (Julieta) Romero, a resilient scholar, student leader, and advocate helping shape a more inclusive future in design.