The Rice School of Architecture is pleased to announce the appointment of four new members to the William Ward Watkin Council: Matthew Bremer, Danielle Chang, David Hinojosa, and Maya Richter. Representing a broad spectrum of design excellence, cultural enterprise, and philanthropic engagement, these individuals join the council in supporting the school’s mission to advance architectural education, research, and practice.
The William Ward Watkin Council—named in honor of the school’s founding director—serves as an advisory group of alumni, parents, and advocates committed to the long-term vitality of the school. Through dialogue, mentorship, and strategic partnership, council members help shape the future of the school by investing in students, championing design excellence, and amplifying the school’s impact across disciplines and regions.
“We are honored to welcome Matthew, Danielle, David, and Maya to the Watkin Council,” said Dean Igor Marjanović. “Each brings a unique vision of what architecture can be: rigorous, responsive, and deeply connected to the world. Their leadership will strengthen our efforts to foster bold ideas, cross-cultural collaboration, and transformative design education.”
New Council Members
Matthew Bremer (B.A. ’90, B.Arch. ’92) is the founder of Architecture in Formation, an award-winning New York–based firm recognized for its inventive, contemporary designs. His work spans residential, cultural, and commercial architecture, with a strong focus on progressive spatial strategies and sustainable design. Past president of AIA New York and a double alumnus of Rice, Bremer brings both professional expertise and institutional perspective to his role on the council.
Danielle Chang (Parent ’26) is the founder and CEO of Lucky Rice LLC, a cultural platform that produces events and media exploring Asian identity through the lens of food, art, and storytelling. Based in New York, she is a cultural entrepreneur and media executive with a background in interdisciplinary innovation. As a Rice parent, Chang brings a global perspective to student experience and deep commitment to fostering cultural exchange.
David Hinojosa (M.Arch. ’86) is the founder of dh+, a Mexico City–based design studio operating at the intersection of architecture, urban planning, and community engagement. His work reflects a career-long commitment to social impact and cross-border dialogue, and he has contributed to both practice and pedagogy throughout Latin America and the United States.
Maya Richter (M.Arch. ’05) is principal of Richter Architects based in Corpus Christi and Houston—a firm widely recognized for its civic, institutional, and cultural work. With deep roots in the Houston design community and a strong belief in architecture’s public dimension, Richter brings valuable insight into the region’s evolving urban and cultural landscape.
The Rice School of Architecture looks forward to the insights and enthusiasm these new members will bring as the council continues to support the school’s educational mission and global engagement.