We’re proud to share highlights from MKDA’s continued involvement in the ACE Mentor Program of Greater New York, a national initiative that connects high school students with professionals in the architecture, construction, and engineering industries. Over the course of several months, Project Managers Raymond Herrera, Doria Miller, and Howard Johnson served as dedicated mentors, guiding Team #41 through the process of designing a comprehensive mixed-use development project. Students developed the Kent Academy of Excellence, a multi-story educational facility, along with Kent Plaza, a transit-adjacent public space featuring retail and community programming.

The team’s final presentation showcased thoughtful design and planning, complete with floor-by-floor program diagrams, sustainability strategies, a detailed project schedule and budget, and physical models. Held at Cumming Group and later at Manhattan College, the presentations were part of a larger showcase featuring teams mentored by firms such as Consigli Construction, Fischer Energy Partners, and Gace Consulting Engineers.

“It was such a rewarding experience—great to be a part of it and to help shape the next generation of creative thinkers,” said MKDA Project Manager Doria Miller.