NOMA Conference 2025

This year’s NOMA Conference took attendees to Kansas City, Missouri. Thursday morning’s sessions focused on various aspects of NOMA’s mission, including advancing equity through outreach, community advocacy, professional development, and design excellence. Day 1 concluded at Union Station’s Science City with the Host Chapter Party. Science City boasts more than 300 interactive exhibits and games, offering unique (and sometimes competitive) opportunities to network with attendees from around the world.

Friday’s programming centered on exploring the rich architectural landscape of Kansas City through guided tours. One of the most sought-after experiences was the tour of The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. From the original Beaux-Arts building designed by Wight and Wight, to Steven Holl’s 2007 Bloch Building, to the forthcoming addition by Weiss/Manfredi, the museum offered visitors a rare glimpse into one of the nation’s foremost museum campuses. Rounding out Day 2, attendees gathered at The Midland Theatre for NOMA’s inaugural Awards Show. Hosted by the legendary Kiki Shepard (Showtime at the Apollo), the Grammy Awards–inspired event celebrated the talented students and designers who are shaping the future of the profession.

Saturday began with the annual Grad Fair & Expo, where students and professionals connected with architecture firms, graduate programs, and organizations from across the country. Accompanied by live-spun records and designer furniture, the HASTINGS booth proved a popular stop for both professionals and students. We carried those conversations into the evening with our fourth annual “Before the Ball” event, hosted at the award-winning Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. This year’s event was our most well-attended yet, and we’re already looking forward to 2026.

After the Bro’s Arts Ball capped off Saturday night, Sunday upheld the longstanding tradition of the Professionals vs. Students Basketball Game. Gary Glinsey, one of our most recently licensed architects and a NOMAnash Executive Board member, helped secure a second consecutive win for the professionals. The NOMA National Conference returns to the South Region in 2026—this time in Miami—and we’re excited to continue supporting and participating in this important professional gathering.