Equity & the Belmont Program: [LO-6]
Belmont’s architecture program actively engages with issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, reflecting core Christian values through its curriculum, policies, and community-oriented projects. One of the program’s strengths is its intimate faculty-to-student ratio, which fosters a unique, personal, and engaging educational experience. This close-knit environment allows for meaningful mentorship and individualized attention, encouraging students to explore and address injustices within both society and the architectural profession.
Injustices in the practice of architecture often manifest in systemic inequities, such as underrepresentation of diverse voices in design discussions and a lack of access to educational resources for marginalized communities. Belmont addresses these issues through projects that focus on social equity. For example, the Frosty Morn Adaptive Reuse project in our third-year studio aimed to revitalize a historic building while considering its impact on the Clarksville community that surrounded it. Similarly, the Nexus project in our fourth year was designed specifically for the North Nashville community, which faces significant challenges, including the highest incarceration rate of any zip code in the nation. This initiative provides vital resources for the formerly incarcerated, helping to break the cycle of re-incarceration and demonstrating how architecture can serve as a tool for social change.
While these projects highlight a strong commitment to addressing societal injustices, there remains room for growth in confronting inequities within the architectural profession itself. Ongoing discussions about equity, representation, and access in our curriculum are essential. Inviting speakers from diverse backgrounds and expanding our course offerings can enrich our understanding of architecture’s role in promoting justice and inclusivity. Overall, Belmont’s architecture program has made meaningful strides in tackling these issues, but the journey toward fully embodying these principles continues, reminding us of the ongoing need for awareness and action in the field. Click on the buttons below to learn more about these projects!