Kimberly Dowdell

Kimberly Dowdell ’01 is a principal at global design firm HOK and a past national president of the American Institute of Architects, where she made history as the 100th person and first Black woman to hold the role. A licensed architect, social entrepreneur, and powerful voice for equity in the built environment, Dowdell has devoted her career to using design as a tool to improve quality of life in cities. She is a co-founder of SEED (Social Economic Environmental Design), a former president of the National Organization of Minority Architects, and has been widely recognized for her leadership, including honors from Crain’s, Architectural Record, and the AIA. In 2021, she was named Cranbrook Schools’ Distinguished Alumna for her professional achievements and commitment to social impact. As a student, Dowdell was a boarding student, resident advisor, Gold Key president, and co-captain of the softball team—experiences that shaped the collaborative and community-centered mindset she brings to her work. She returned to campus in 2025 to deliver the Baccalaureate address to the graduating class, encouraging students to lead with purpose and build a more equitable future for all.

 

Read Kim’s Distinguished Alumna Profile from Tradition by clicking here.