Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion
At SMMA, we recognize that our strength lies in the collective power of our diverse and talented staff. Our culture celebrates this internal diversity, striving to create an environment where everyone has the freedom to express themselves authentically in a collaborative workplace. Our goal is to foster a sense of belonging: to make SMMA a place where every person feels not just welcomed, but truly known and celebrated.
SMMA’s dedicated EDI team seeks to drive positive change within our industry. Formed of staff and firm leaders from diverse backgrounds, the Team actively challenges biases and seeks to change perspectives in the A/E/C world. These efforts include creating opportunities for education, reshaping systems for equity, and organizing impactful initiatives within the firm and the local community.
ACE Mentor Program
SMMA is a founding partner of the Greater Boston chapter of ACE, a non-profit that empowers high school students to explore careers in architecture, construction management, and engineering. We host one of six cohorts in our Cambridge office in a 16-week program, where students receive mentorship and hands-on experience from design professionals. Students gain valuable insights into the industry and receive the support they need to explore a career in design.
SMMA proudly collaborates with ACE Mentor Program of Greater Boston to host an annual scholarship fundraiser, supporting high school seniors pursuing A/E/C careers.
SMMA Fund Scholarship
Founded in 2010, our annual scholarship awards funds to qualified graduating seniors who attend high schools designed by SMMA. The Fund’s purpose is to champion the diversification of our industry by supporting talented students along their path into higher education. SMMA has awarded 59 scholarships totaling more than $65,000 to students from 17 high schools.
The Lyceum Fellowship
The Lyceum Fellowship was established in 1985 by SMMA founder and design leader, Jon McKee. Through a unique structure of design competition, jury process, and prize-winning travel grants, the Lyceum promotes collaboration, connectivity, and a design dialogue. The Lyceum Fellowship is a 2015 AIA Institute Honors for Collaborative and Professional Achievement recipient and has awarded 238 students over $515,000 in grants since its conception.
When we win, we win together.
To reinforce our dedication to equity, we go beyond the ordinary by enrolling all employees in the SMMA Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP). As employee-owners, we are all invested in the firm’s long-term success.
“I have greater motivation to work somewhere where every employee is invested in the company. Being part of the ESOP helps foster a greater sense of purpose and equity. It’s about achieving the shared goals of SMMA, together.”
