Samant Named among Class of 2023 Women of Influence

New Brunswick, N.J., August 7, 2023 – Swarupa Samant, AIA, principal at DIGroup Architecture, has been named a 2023 Woman of Influence for Architect/Design Professionals. Her achievements on behalf of DIGroup, the profession and the underserved communities where the firm's assignments are located are highlighted in the current issue of a leading national commercial real estate publication.

 “Women in commercial real estate, and the architecture, construction and engineering (ACE) fields specifically, need to be the messengers who plant the seed in the young-girl's mind that careers in this industry are in high demand and a viable option for women – many of whom are on the frontlines because they are talented and skilled, not because they are female,” said Samant.

“The ACE industry benefits from diverse perspectives and skills, including those brought by women such as unique viewpoints, problem-solving approaches and creativity to design and construction projects,” she added. “Recognizing the value of these contributions, companies are actively seeking female professionals to enhance their teams.”

To be considered for the Women of Influence “Class of 2023,” nominees must stand out among their counterparts; demonstrate leadership – particularly in recent uncertain times – as well as significant accomplishments over the past 12 months; and be active in business, career-oriented, charitable and/or civic-minded organizations.  

 “Swarupa is a consummate professional who truly holds, effects and exhibits DIGroup Architecture's core value of creating architecture for change,” said Jeffrey Venezia, principal and CEO. “We are proud to call her our colleague and congratulate her on being a national voice and advocate for women and people of color.”

 In addition to the architecture/design field, individuals are selected across 16+ disciplines in commercial real estate. These include development professionals, diversity champions, mentors, brokerage professionals, consultant/advisor/individual professionals, legal counsel, humanitarians, institutional investors, property/facility managers and prop-tech executives/innovators.   

 “It's a humbling experience to be recognized in your industry on a national level – as a woman of influence – when you're simply doing the things that you feel are right in your head and your heart,” said Samant, who was also recently honored at the state level by the Professional Women in Construction-New Jersey Chapter as a Woman of Achievement.

 “When I set out on this professional journey, I simply wanted to use my skills and experience to make a difference,” she said. “I am delighted to be recognized for these efforts and I look forward to continuing my good work for DIGroup Architecture, our greater community and young women who may be considering a profession in an ACE or related industry.”

 Samant, who joined DIGroup Architecture in 2014 and quickly ascended the ranks to the role of principal, also holds the distinction as the firm's first minority female to achieve this milestone. In addition to managing $200+M in construction projects, she is a LEED-Accredited Professional who seeks to design and create spaces that advance sustainability.

While Samant's focus is primarily within DIGroup's Education Studio, she also actively takes on projects that have a significant impact. One such example is the completion of Dina's Dwellings, a supportive-housing haven for survivors of domestic violence.

A licensed architect in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, Samant is a member of the Professional Women in Construction-NJ Chapter. Her licenses and certifications include the National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB), American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the United States Green Building Council's (USGBC) LEED AP designation.