31392149-1ee330ca-7828-46ff-9a46-0b341b7c5b97-1-KLee_10_Slide_GospelChurch-Syracuse.png

KERMIT J. LEE JR.

Skoler and Lee Architects
African American AIA Fellow

SAY IT LOUD - Washington DC Exhibitor
New York Based Designer

Bio:

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Lee was also notable for being the first African American graduate from the Syracuse University School of Architecture and was at one point the only registered African American architect in Central New York.

KERMIT J. LEE JR.

Bio:

Born in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1934 and a Syracuse resident for more than 50 years, Kermit was a Professor of Architecture at Syracuse University and co-owner of Skoler and Lee Architects with the late Louis Skoler. A 1957 magna cum laude graduate of S.U. with a degree in architecture, Kermit pursued graduate study at Technische Hochschule in Braunschweig Germany as a Fulbright Fellow. While in Europe he also served as Chief of Architecture, a civilian post with the Seventh Air Force AFEX. His professional accomplishments include: Chairing the NY State Board of Architecture, charter membership on NY State Governor Mario Cuomo's Cultural Advisory Committee for Times Square and 42nd Street, and investiture as a Fellow, College of Fellows, American Institute of Architects. As the first black graduate of the School of Architecture, he was particularly proud of his mentoring role for minority students. A stroke ended his teaching career in 1994, but did not diminish his immense intellect, sense of humor, entrepreneurial spirit, or devotion to family. Among Lee’s specialties were urban planning, alternative energy, and resource recovery. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Lee was also notable for being the first African American graduate from the Syracuse University School of Architecture. He was at one point the only registered African American architect in Central New York.

Year of Elevation:

1990