Madona Cumar, Assoc. AIA, is a dynamic leader and Senior Associate at Perkins Eastman Architects, where she co-leads the Workplace practice area. With over 16 years of global and national experience spanning commercial real estate, hospitality, education, and large-scale mixed-use projects, she has established a reputation for delivering innovative, sustainable solutions that maximize ROI and create lasting impact.
Recognized for her strategic acumen, Madona excels in navigating complex funding landscapes, optimizing operations, and cultivating strong stakeholder relationships. Her expertise in sustainable and inclusive development reflects her commitment to redefining how cities and organizations approach equity, resilience, and green growth.
Beyond her professional achievements, Madona is a dedicated mentor with the AIA Chicago Wings Mentorship Program and the Architect in Schools Program. She previously served as the Scholarship Chair for Chicago Women in Architecture, demonstrating her dedication to empowering the next generation of architects. Currently, she serves on the Urban Land Institute's Product Council and DEI Committee, contributing to thought leadership on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the built environment.
A passionate advocate for affordable and accessible care, Madona champions policies that support equitable growth for all sectors of society. She is a recent graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School of Public Policy Executive Program, specializing in Economic Development and Public Policy, further solidifying her leadership in shaping resilient and inclusive communities.