Cathy Cervantes Morrison
CEO at Neighboring Concepts, Charlotte, NC
Education:
Master of Architecture, UNC Charlotte (2006)
Master of Arts in Geography, UNC Charlotte (2007)
Bachelor of Science in Architecture, University of Maryland, College Park (2004)
Cathy Cervantes Morrison, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C, is the Chief Executive Officer for Neighboring Concepts, where she is recognized for her work in community-centered design, equity in the built environment, and transformative public infrastructure. Her work spans healthcare, transit, education, and civic spaces, all anchored in inclusive engagement, contextual sensitivity, and sustainable design strategies. Under her leadership, Neighboring Concepts has been honored with the AIA NC/NOMA award for Equitable and Inclusive Firm Practices.
Cathy remembers that the studios and culture of UNC Charlotte were very different from her undergraduate architectural education. “This helped me form stronger opinions on design and communities by exposing myself to different ideas. Broadening my curriculum to incorporate a dual master’s in Geography (Community Planning) took those preferences a step further,” she explained.
“During my time at UNC Charlotte,” she continued, “I felt encouraged to make my education fit my personal passions. I took that confidence post-graduation to design my career path with experiences in and out of the office.”
Cathy began her career at Gantt Huberman Architects, where she worked for a decade, followed by Gresham Smith. She joined Neighboring Concepts in 2021.
Cathy serves on the board of directors for Nourish Up, which provides food pantries and meal delivery for Mecklenburg County. She is also President of the North Carolina Board of Architecture and Registered Interior Designers and the National Council of Architecture Registration Boards Region 3 Director.
In her near 20-year career Cathy has received numerous honors, including the NCARB President’s Medal for Distinguished Service, AIA North Carolina’s Deitrick Service Medal, and the AIA Charlotte Citizen Architect Award. In 2025, she was elevated to the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects.