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Project Pipeline Kalamazoo 2025: Biggest Year Yet!

This summer, Project Pipeline Kalamazoo marked its eighth year of inspiring the next generation of architects.

Co-directors Hayward Babineaux and Nadine Rios-Rivas (a TowerPinkster Architectural Designer) work to help bring this national program to Kalamazoo as a satellite group of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) – Detroit Chapter.

Record Attendance + Powered by Volunteers

This year, 26 middle and high school students participated, the largest group to date! The reach expanded as well, with students traveling from as far as Traverse City to join the program.

Volunteers from 11 Southwest Michigan design firms generously shared their time and expertise. The camp was held at the Richmond Institute of Design and Innovation at WMU. Their support, including sponsoring lunch for the campers, makes a huge difference in the success of the program.

At TowerPinkster, we are proud to support Project Pipeline as a sponsor. Members of our team serve on the camp’s board and volunteer during the program. Participating in an event that introduces students to the world of design aligns closely with our mission to inspire and empower future generations

A Week in the Life of a Project Pipeline Camper

Day 1: Students learned architectural drawing techniques, visited a construction site, and heard from Jamauri Bogan (WMU alumnus) of Bogan Development.

Day 2: Students toured the project site and, for many, stepped inside an architecture firm for the first time at Intersect Studio and the Custer showroom. During lunch, Dr. Karkia Parker shared her research on Albert J. White, a historic Black mason who built several Kalamazoo landmarks, including WMU’s Heritage Hall.

Day 3: The final day focused on collaboration and presentation. Students worked in teams to develop a complete design: floor plans, elevations, a site plan, models, and presentations for an audience of parents and community members.

Looking Ahead

Project Pipeline Kalamazoo continues to grow in size, impact, and reach. The passion and dedication of students, volunteers, sponsors, and mentors demonstrate the importance of creating opportunities for underrepresented youth to explore architecture.

TowerPinkster is honored to be part of this vital work. Together, we are helping develop the next generation of architects who will shape our communities in the years ahead.