In this episode, we are joined by past recipients of the Desiree V Copper Memorial Scholarship, Whitni R Irving AIA, NOMA, LEED Green Associate, NCARB; Colby C. Mitchell, Assoc. AIA, NOMA and Natasha Graves, RA, who share their experiences of receiving financial support for their architectural registration exam (ARE). Two DVC Committee Members, Katherine Williams, AIA, NOMA and Nickolas Hill, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, who give us an insider's view of the scholarship and its impact. They talk about the scholarship's goal to pave the way for aspiring architects, the selection process, and how the scholarship has evolved over the years.

The Desiree V. Cooper (DVC) Memorial Scholarship offering assistance to those taking the architect registration exam. It seeks to honor the life and legacy of Desiree V. Cooper by championing the things she was passionate about in her professional career and personal endeavors: providing continual service to her communities and encouraging minorities and women in the advancement of their careers in architecture. To that end, the Foundation awards Scholarships for the architectural registration exam in the following categories: The Black Women in Architecture Award, The Harrisburg Memorial Award, The DC Memorial Award, and the NOMA award.

Whitni R Irving AIA, NOMA, LEED Green Associate, NCARB is a Job Captain at IA Interior Architects. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a Master of Architecture from Clemson University. With expertise in K-12 education, civic institutions, urban parks, and mixed-use developments, Whitni has worked on numerous projects that have positively impacted communities. Her projects include Seaport Circle and the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport, among others.

Colby C. Mitchell, Assoc. AIA, NOMA is a native of Marianna, Arkansas. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (2011) and Master of Architecture (2013) degree, both from the University of Memphis. He is a Project Manager at Self + TuckerArchitects and Adjunct Professor at the University of Memphis. He is also an entrepreneur graphic designer with his own business, Detail 7; proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., serves on the board of Directors for the American Institute of Architects (AIA) – Memphis Chapter and the National Organization of Minority Architects – Memphis Chapter.

Natasha Graves, RA, is an Assistant Preconstruction Manager at John Moriarty & Associates. She received her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Howard University, where she gained a solid foundation in design, project management, and construction. Natasha's passion for architecture and construction is evident in everything she does. She is committed to delivering exceptional results and ensuring that every project is a success. Find out about Natasha’s licensure journey through Archstories.