The James E. Silcott Endowed Chair

The James E. Silcott Endowed Chair was established in 2002 by a gift from James E. Silcott, FAIA, a distinguished alum of the Department of Architecture and esteemed member of the Howard University Board of Trustees. The gift has provided program enhancements that highlight and advance the architecture program at Howard University.

Since 2005, nine prominent professionals within the field of architecture, design and construction have filled the James E. Silcott Chair. Silcott Chairs expose our students and faculty to a diverse range of issues, advancing and enhancing our architecture education. During each semester of residence, the Silcott Chair may direct an upper level design studio or conduct a seminar course as well as present public lectures, exhibitions and/or workshops, and participate in the life of the Department of Architecture.

Profiles of nine Silcott Chairs from 2005 to 2018

About James E. Silcott

While growing up in Boston, James E. Silcott developed an interest in architecture and design. He pursued this interest at Howard University, graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. Silcott returned to Boston after graduation and worked as a designer for Arthur Herman Cohen. He eventually moved to Los Angeles, where, for several decades, he built a prominent career in architecture and public service.

In the course of his distinguished career, Silcott built a reputation as one of the foremost African­-American architects in the Los Angeles area as well as a leader in public service. He is also a source of significant philanthropic assistance to Howard University, particularly for the students of architecture.

With the recollection of the difficulties he and other black students faced trying to pursue professional careers, Silcott created the James E. Silcott Fund and the James E. Silcott Endowed Chair for the Department of Architecture to provide financial assistance to students, program enhancements, and highlight and advance the architecture program at Howard University.

James E. Silcott is the recipient of Howard University's Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award for his contributions to the field of Public Service Architecture and also a past member of the South Los Angeles Area Planning Commission. Presently, he is a board member of the Kennard Design Group, one of the largest African-American firms on the west coast.