Purnell, Marshall E.
1950- · Contribution: 1990s-2000s
Architect
The first African American president of the American Institute of Architects (elected 2006; served as 84th president, 2008); design principal and co-founder of Devrouax + Purnell Architects and Planners in Washington, D.C.; former president of the National Organization of Minority Architects (1985-1986)

Portraits are AI-generated interpretations, not photographs.
Quick facts
- Born
- 1950
- Active since
- 1978
- Category
- Architecture & Design
- Best known for
- First Black AIA presidentDevrouax + PurnellWashington civic landmarks
Impact on the world
Purnell reached the top of the nation's largest architecture organization while helping design the major public buildings that shaped modern Washington, D.C.
Sources
- AIA / Center for Architecture ('Say It Loud')
1 more sources and references are available to members.
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McAfee, Charles F.
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Bond, J. Max Jr.
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Became a partner in the major architectural firm Davis Brody Bond