If you're unaware of her name, you know of her work. Zena Howard's contributions to the architecture profession are rooted in design strategy and advocacy. With over 25 years of experience, the seasoned architect has worked on several notable projects. As Principal and Managing Director of Perkins+Will's North Carolina practice, her work is a reflection of her passion as an architect, mentor, team builder, and strategist. Several of Howard's projects focuses on public and private institutions, museums, and other educational typologies. 

In her most recent interview, Howard discusses her role within Perkins+Will and how her personal experience has helped shape her journey as a female African-American woman in the profession. When asked about the challenges she has faced during her career Howard shares, "There have certainly been challenges, the most significant of which is lack of mentorship. I have also had experiences centered around unconscious bias which often manifests by way of insensitive comments, actions, or attitudes. My response has been to stay focused on what I love doing, help others and seek help, and to not let any of these challenges cause me to become disheartened or disengage."

There have certainly been challenges, [...] my response has been to stay focused on what I love doing, help others and seek help, and to not let any of these challenges cause me to become disheartened or disengage."

As the Senior Project Manager of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Howard's vision was to ensure the building, and exhibit design accurately reflected the history and story of the African American people. Collaboration is a big part of Howard's process, and to ensure the project's success the museum's structure needed to reflect voices in the community. 

Currently, Howard is working on cultural urban environment projects like Destination Crenshaw. Perkins+Will, with Howard's leadership, will lead the design and construction of the project. The goal to revamp the historic Crenshaw wall is merely one of the many components the firm plans on achieving.

An advocate for change and inclusion Howard's skill set have allowed her to not only share stories but build them."Architecture is one of the most exciting and rewarding professions to pursue. In addition to being a wonderful way to express creativity and craft, it can also be used to reconnect and remember lost communities, celebrate diversity, give voice to the underrepresented, create shared experiences…and the list goes on.  No doubt, the profession can be rigorous but this is more than offset by the benefit of seeing your work improve lives often in unexpected ways."