Melvalean Mclemore is an award-winning architect, visionary leader, and relentless advocate for equity in the built environment. Proudly one of the first 500 Black women licensed in the U.S., she has dedicated over 14 years to designing and managing impactful projects while actively shaping the future of the profession through mentorship, licensure support, and systemic advocacy. A Senior Associate and Project Manager, she currently leads K-12 and Higher Ed projects while driving industry-wide change by fostering inclusion and amplifying diverse voices in architecture. She serves on the AIA Houston executive board as Immediate Past President and is a board member of the Architecture Center Houston Foundation, where she has pioneered programs that break down barriers, empower future architects, and redefine what's possible for the next generation.