Architect Pascale Sablan Inspires ITAV LA Students with Lessons on Equity and Greatness
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8 minutes, 38 seconds
The ITAV LA campus in Bronzeville buzzed with energy as students eagerly anticipated a visit from Pascale Sablan, a visionary architect and CEO of Adjaye Associates New York Studio. With her groundbreaking book, GREATNESS: Diverse Designers of Architecture, as the focal point, Sablan engaged students in an inspiring conversation about breaking barriers and achieving greatness in architecture.
GREATNESS:
A Manifesto for Equity and Justice in Architecture
When asked if she ever faced discrimination because of her background, “All the time,” she admitted. “But by confronting those barriers, I knew I could open doors for others. GREATNESS is my way of showing that our contributions deserve to be seen and celebrated.”
Her book highlights the often-overlooked work of 47 contemporary architects and designers, showcasing projects that address housing injustice, redlining, and sustainability. “This book is more than a collection of stories; it’s a manifesto for equity, inclusion, and justice in architecture. It demonstrates how design can foster dignity, well-being, and belonging,” Sablan explained.
Later, she addressed the entire seventh and eighth-grade classes, emphasizing how architecture can confront structural inequities while inspiring systemic change. “By challenging traditional notions of excellence, we’re redefining what it means to be great,” she declared.
Paving the way for Others
Speaking to Tyra Martin, WGN reporter, Sablan emphasized the importance of representation in architecture. “For young people watching this story who may not even realize architecture is an option for them, I say, get involved,” Sablan shared. “There are so many organizations like Beyond the Built Environment, my organization, or the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), with pipeline camps and programs that can help guide them.”
Sablan’s message resonated with the students, who asked about her journey. She shared how being the 315th living African American woman registered architect in the U.S. made her acutely aware of her role in paving the way for others. “We make up just 0.02% of the profession. So while we are rare, we are here, and that makes this mission urgent but also exciting,” she explained.
Inspiring the Next Generation
WGN also interviewed ITAV eighth-grade students, Pe’Tehn Jackson, Cedric Washington, Quest McQewen, and seventh-grade Carter Shaw about what they learned. “If I chose architecture and someone told me I couldn’t because no one who looks like me does it, I’d want to prove them wrong. I think everyone should have the chance to do what they want,” said Shaw.
An eighth-grade student shared how meeting Sablan deepened his understanding of architecture’s possibilities. “I’ve never met an architect before. To meet someone who overcame challenges is really exciting and inspiring.” He added, “It’s important to meet people like her because you can ask how they did it and what they went through to succeed.”
Eighth-grade student, Cedric Washington, shared how meeting Sablan deepened his understanding of architecture’s possibilities. “I’ve never met an architect before. To meet someone who overcame challenges is really exciting and inspiring.” He added, “It’s important to meet people like her because you can ask how they did it and what they went through to succeed.”
“What Would You Design?”
Sablan’s discussions went beyond inspiration to the practical impacts of architecture. “Architecture can change the spaces we’re in—from the chair you’re sitting on to the community outside,” she said. When asked what they would design, Washington mentioned climate change: “I’d like to create buildings that help with environmental issues or make the community more exciting and connected.”
Student Pe’tehn Jackson spoke about Chicago’s architectural legacy, saying, “Buildings like the Willis Tower bring people together. It would feel amazing to be the person designing spaces that give people those experiences.”
Empowering the Next Generation:
A Personal Q&A with Pascale Sablan
Students eagerly participated in a lively Q&A session, asking questions about sustainable design and Sablan’s journey as a woman of color in a predominantly white industry. When one eighth-grade boy asked, “Can anyone become an architect?”
Sablan answered with conviction, “Yes. Architecture is for everyone. Your ideas, voices, and creativity can build a world that is better and fairer for everyone.”
A Historic Visit Captured for Black History Month
WGN News captured the powerful exchange for their upcoming Black History Month special, airing on February 27th at 6:30 pm. As the event concluded, Sablan left the students with a lasting message: “Each of you has the power to create, innovate, and advocate. Use your voices to build a future where greatness is truly inclusive.”