Image

April C. Drake, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP ID+C

(She/Her)

2024

AIA NoVA Past President

Managing Principal, HDR


A graduate of Hampton University, April is well-known for her dedication to both collaboration and communication. As Managing Principal of the HDR Arlington Office, April’s portfolio of work includes higher education, commercial and government facilities, leading multidisciplinary teams through all stages of design. April is especially passionate about her mentorship role in promoting the growth of women and minorities in architecture and allied fields. As one of the first 400 African American licensed women in the country, April is aware of the leadership and encouragement that is necessary to guide women from graduation to licensure. She currently serves as the 2024 Past President for the AIA Northern Virginia (NOVA) Chapter and is a Past Chair of the AIA NOVA Women in Architecture Committee. In addition, April volunteers with the National Council of Architecture Registration Board on several task forces where she is influencing the path of licensure for future generations.