Volunteer Profile

Morgan C.B. Miles serves as the Vice Chair of the Dean’s Advisory Board for the School of Architecture, infusing a fresh perspective since joining in fall 2020 as its youngest member.

A proud alumna of the University of Virginia from the class of 2006, Miles champions alternative paths outside traditional architectural licensure and helped create the Alumni Mentorship Program at the School of Architecture during the challenging times of the pandemic, along with members of the A-School Young Alumni Council. This collaborative effort showcased the community’s resilience, highlighting Miles’ dedication to fostering connections and unity.

Miles credited one of her mentors, Susan “Syd” Dorsey, a former Board of Visitors member and distinguished graduate of both the School of Architecture and Darden School of Business, for her inspiration and guidance.

Miles visiting Thomas Jefferson's Monticello home as a young girl.

Legacy of Connection: Charlottesville Roots

"I truly cherish giving back my time to UVA because it is where my roots were planted and where my passion for architecture blossomed,” Miles said. Her connection to Charlottesville runs deep. Miles’ grandfather, a Hampton Institute (now Hampton University) graduate from the class of 1938, was born and raised in Charlottesville. During her fourth-year architecture studio, the site location for the semester-long project was the Jefferson School close to downtown Charlottesville. This site, which was selected by her professor, turned out to be her grandfather’s high school. This remarkable coincidence completed a full-circle journey for Miles.

Foundation and Early Achievements

Miles’ passion for architecture ignited during art classes she took as a high school student at Cornell University. Beyond Cornell, she boasts a robust foundation in mathematics, excelling in various IB and AP classes as a high schooler. An accomplished athlete, Miles was part of the New Jersey state championship tennis team.

During her UVA years, she served on the Honor Committee for two years, representing the School of Architecture and advocating for a community of trust. Her involvement with the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students as treasurer and her role as an Adopt-A-Grandparent volunteer further underline her commitment to community and inclusivity. Sharon McDonald, a welcoming figure at UVA and registrar for the school, played an instrumental role in making Miles feel at home during her formative years.

Diverse Career Trajectory and Accomplishments

Post-UVA, Miles delved into commercial real estate development before earning an MBA in real estate and finance from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. With responsibility for over $1 billion worth of development projects and financing deals, her diverse portfolio encompasses hotels, condominiums, multi-family residential apartments, office, industrial/data centers, retail, and senior living. All of Miles’ projects have been completed under budget and on schedule while upholding quality standards. Notable projects include multi-billion-dollar, complex mixed-use waterfront developments District Wharf in Washington, D.C., and Water Street Tampa in Tampa, Florida.

Miles developed North America’s first Canopy by Hilton and Hyatt House in D.C. and contributed to the design of D.C.’s most expensive condominium by world renowned Rafael Viñoly Architects.

A testament to her adventurous spirit, Miles has climbed 10 tower cranes—over 2,000 feet of climbing— pushing her boundaries and embracing new challenges.

Miles pictured on the boom (horizontal arm) of the tower crane during one of her climbs. Surrounding images taken by Miles during different tower crane climbs at District Wharf.

Influence and Contribution to UVA

As a board member, Miles actively participates in office hours, engaging with students and faculty to foster dialogue and offer guidance. She has also been an integral part of various speaking engagements, both as a contributor (guest speaking at the Dean’s Forum Dinner) and a panel organizer, bringing diverse perspectives to the forefront. An advocate for innovation, Miles is in the process of organizing a workshop on AI for architecture students in the fall.

“There is something deeply rewarding about contributing to a place that shaped my journey,” Miles said. She shares advice on courses, career paths, and interview preparation with her mentees and passes along names of industry and professional contacts. As a trusted mentor, she has advised over 30 UVA students and countless other young professionals and rising leaders.

Lindsay Schiller, director of career development at the School of Architecture, has seen firsthand the impact Miles makes. “I know that every student she works with will be inspired and encouraged in whatever path they choose,” she said.

Miles began mentoring Philip Daniel Shores when the master’s degree student from Brazil entered the architecture graduate program remotely in 2020. “She genuinely wants to help, and she gives her all,” Shores said. Their relationship has continued since Shores began working in Washington, D.C. “Even with a very busy schedule of her own, she finds time to listen, wishing nothing in return. She does it with her heart, aiming to make people fulfilled and happy. I’m forever grateful to have had her as my mentor at UVA and beyond. There’s no greater value than having someone that brings such life, care, and determination to her mentorships, work, and friendships!”

There is something deeply rewarding about contributing to a place that shaped my journey.

— Morgan C.B. Miles

Commitment to Community and Advocacy

Miles recognized Kim Wong Haggart, director of engagement and alumni initiatives at the School of Architecture, as one of the main reasons she remains deeply connected with the A-School.

Miles’ dedication to her community is evident in her efforts to ensure no architecture student feels isolated, particularly during the November 2022 incident on Grounds. She, along with the Dean’s Advisory Board in partnership with the Foundation Board of Trustees and other volunteer leadership, initiated a Thanksgiving dinner catering tradition at Campbell Hall to provide a sense of home to those unable to visit their families.

Miles is an avid houseplant enthusiast with over 45 plants and is a staunch advocate for neurodiversity. She has shared her insights on the topic at the University of Maryland and actively promotes neurodiversity and learning differences through her role on the University of Pennsylvania’s Weingarten Center Advisory Board.

Lifelong Advocate

In all her endeavors, Miles emphasizes the importance of representation, championing underrepresented voices, and fostering an inclusive environment.

Her journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to uplifting others, embodying the spirit of service and community that defines her legacy at UVA and beyond.