Gabriel Kroiz, AIA

Associate Professor | Morgan State
Gabriel was Camessia’s teacher

Camessia is a gifted visual artist and designer, and has two qualities that I value highly in a future Architect. She listens well and puts in the work.'Listening well' refers to a range of perceptions from taking in the project brief to understanding the values of the constituencies that she is serving, that makes her work matter.

'Putting in the work' is the commitment that is apparent in her portfolio and projects. She doesn't stop until the work meets her own demanding standard. It is rewarding to watch her progress both within the walls of an architectural practice, and as an emerging civic leader in our community.

I am writing this letter based on my knowledge of Camessia Johnson both in my capacity as undergraduate program director for Architecture and Environmental Design at Morgan State University, and as one of Ms. Johnson’s professors on two occasions. 

I will divide my comments into two areas, first Ms. Johnson’s exemplary character and achievements, and second her trailblazing position as a female African-American pursuing a career in Architecture. 

I had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Johnson as a freshman in my ARCH 101 – Concepts and Theories of the Built Environment course. She was bright, well prepared, diligent, and easily placed in the top 10% of the entering cohort of 80+ students. 

She was the only traditional first time freshman among the top five students. Her standout performance continued as she moved through other classes earning top grades, receiving awards and praise from her instructors, and participating in student exhibitions and competitions. Last spring I was again able to work with Ms. Johnson in the ARCH 302 Housing Studio. In this setting I witnessed a student that was truly absorbing the lessons of the curriculum and developing into one of the most thoughtful and competent designers that we will have educated over the five years that I have been at Morgan. It is clear from talking to Ms. Johnson and watching her work that her ambition goes beyond entry into the profession and a vision of design achievement and leadership at the highest levels. 

Ms. Johnson is clearly the type of student that would excel in other fields and areas of the academic landscape so it is important to point out the significance of her future as a black female architect relative to our schools mission as an Historic Black College and University. 

Since the civil rights movements of the 1960’s strides towards integration have been made in professions like law and medicine, however Architecture remains at less than 2% African-American practitioners and only a few of these are female.

Ms. Johnson is truly an under-represented minority in her field of study and has developed an understanding of this aspect of her future professional career. In particular she applied for and participated in the National Urban League’s Black Executive Exchange Program (BEEP) Leadership Conference last summer in Orlando, Florida. 

I will close by saying that I expect great things from Ms. Johnson as she moves forward in her professional career and invite any inquiries for which I might provide further insight with regards to Ms. Johnson. 

Leon Bridges, FAIA, NOMAC

Professor | Morgan State University
Leon was Camessia’s teacher

I am a professional architect registered with NCARB and with registration is seven States of the United States of America. I state this in order to certify with the reader that I have been in my architectural practice since 1962 beginning in the State of Washington and continuing mostly in the eastern part of USA and involving a multitude of projects of varying commercial value.

Within that statement, in my experience I am very much proud to recommend Camessia D. Johnson, Associate AIA and member of NOMA. As you will view her Letter of Intent, Resume, Design Experience and especially her Portfolio, you should surely join me in an exclamation of her tremendous level of training, experience and ability to approach and engage in the design of a various grouping of architectural and planning projects. Professionally, Ms. Johnson is without exception a very qualified person.

As a colleague within an office, Ms. Johnson is exceptional in her willingness to collaborate with her colleagues and assist their design projects. Her pleasant personality makes Ms. Johnson a pleasure with whom to associate both professionally and in private settings. Ms. Johnson is a young aspiring architect on her way toward professional registration, a person of whom I am so pleased to offer my support and recommendation.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions not addressed above. (December 2019)

Bryce Turner, FAIA

CEO| BCT Architects
Bryce was Camessia’s Manager

I am submitting this letter of recommendation for Camessia Johnson, who has worked with our organization for 5 years and 8 months.

As President of the company and acting as Principal In Charge on many of her projects, I have found Camessia to be of definite good moral character. She has not only worked extremely hard but has also given of her own time and has participated in pro bono projects, including a wonderful project in Sandtown Winchester. Camessia has also served the community through our local AIA organization and their Future Architects Resource Committee.

I have every reason to believe that Camessia will continue forward and become a leading architect.

Robert Northfield, AIA

Principal | BCT Architects
Robert was Camessia’s Manager

1 have had the great pleasure of knowing and working with Camessia Johnson, for over 5 years.

During this time Camessia has exhibited the highest work ethic and dedication to her responsibilities and the profession of Architecture. As Studio Director and Principal of the firm, I have enjoyed seeing her development and contributions to our practice, as we have worked on mixed use and retail buildings.

Please accept this endorsement of her character and this letter of recommendation.

Chris Holler, AIA

Principal | BCT Architects
Chris was Camessia’s Direct Manager + Mentor

Camessia has been a full time employee at BCT Architects for over 5 years. During her time with BCT, she has worked directly under my supervision. She is a motivated self-starter who has become an invaluable member of both our Commercial and Housing Studios.

Camessia came to BCT directly after her graduation, and immediately made an impact. She has continued to grow her skillset by learning BIM software and working on construction documents and construction administration for some very large projects. She now excels in both her design ability and her capacity to assemble a good set of construction details.

Camessia has shown a good moral character by helping to run many of BCT's philanthropic endeavors, including the Canstruction program for AIA Baltimore. She also participates in many social and business development oriented events outside of the office.

I have no doubt that Camessia will be an outstanding architect someday.

Pedro Sales, AIA, LEED AP

Principal | BCT Architects
Pedro was Camessia’s Direct Manager

This letter provides me with an opportunity to highly recommend Camessia Johnson to the Maryland Board of Architects.

I have known Camessia for the last five years as a full time member of BCT Architects.

During thetime I have known her, we have worked together on many mixed-use and retail projects. Camessia has shown great commitment to the profession and the outmost respect for her colleagues.

Camessia is always professional, detail orientated, and keenly aware of the professional duties. I am proud and lucky to work closely with Camessia and highly recommend her.

Jarrett A. Burton

Real Estate Agent | Photographer

Morgan State University, Bachelor of Science Architecture 
Jarrett was a college classmate of Camessia’s

I am writing this letter of recommendation for a very good friend of mine who I’ve had the pleasure of knowing 

throughout my experience in Morgan State University’s BSAED Program, Class of 2014. Whether we were 

constructing models during third shift hours, developing presentation boards for a design proposal, or volunteering our free time towards community service, Camessia Johnson always maintained a high level of competence,perseverance, and a willingness to learn. Four years later, nothing has changed and she hasn’t lost a step!

Camessia is determined to be great and possesses a large palette of skills that many employers today are in search of in the industry; Community Outreach, Teamwork, Problem-solving, Leadership, and Adaptability.

Her character and work ethic will without a doubt inspire others and if given the opportunity, you will see the qualities listed above demonstrated on a daily basis. In addition, you will notice how devoted she is to generating positive results,often dedicating much of her free time after office hours strategizing, spurring innovation or reviewing/polishing her assignments, all while cognizant of upcoming deadlines. 

Camessia is a solid candidate for any position and would be a great addition to your team! 

Sincerely, Jarrett A. Burton 

Carolyn Lindgren

Project Architect | Coesivo Design Group

University of Cincinnati, Bachelor of Science Architecture 
Carolyn was Camessia’s coworker at BCT Architects 

For the past two years, I have worked alongside Camessia and have seen her bring forward-thinking, 

professionalism, and leadership to BCT's small corner of the Architectural world. It is clear that she is driven and focused on her goals, but is undeniably a team player; with collaboration always in mind. 

Whether it is her investment in aspiring designers as the Chair of the Future Architects Resources Committee, or the creator of the Adopt-A-School program at BCT, Camessia is a true advocate for Architecture and Graphic Design.

If Camessia approaches your firm with the same balance of expertise and joy that she brings to work everyday, I know she will be a valuable addition to your team! 

Sincerely, Carolyn Lindgren

Negar Tabibian, ASLA, Assoc. AIA

Urban Planner and Project Designer | Streetsense

Negar was Camessia’s coworker at BCT Architects and Streetsense 

I have had the privilege of working with Camessia on several design/build projects and experiences including architectural projects, pro bono activities, outreach, competitions, teaching, presentation graphics, and curriculum design.

Camessia is a very creative professional with advanced skills in different graphic and design development software. She is also a flexible and creative thinker who is equally as efficient and caring about the quality of her final product and/or design she is working on.

Working with Camessia is a very pleasant opportunity that is both productive and inspiring. I highly recommend her for any design or outreach collaboration! 

Best, Negar Tabibian

Isha Somerville, Associate AIA, NOMA 

A/E Designer | PM&A 

Hampton University, Master of Architecture Isha attended high school with Camessia

Camessia is a well rounded and gifted individual who excels in design work and architecture in all aspects. She always goes the extra mile to really portray great visual work as well as putting forth a great attitude while presenting. 

Camessia is very determined to be the very best at whatever task she is given. She always has a beautiful smile on her face and her presence always lights up a room. She has made so many accomplishments since working in her field and has been a positive influence on not only myself but others as well. 

I truly believe Camessia will be a great addition to your team and is the perfect fit for this position! 

Best Regards, Isha Somerville