Tommy Hernandez

From an unexpected introduction to NewSchool to becoming a licensed architect, educator, and design professional, Tommy Hernandez (B.Arch, 2020) has built a career rooted in mentorship, lifelong learning, and service to the architectural community.

Tommy’s journey to NewSchool began by chance while delivering a catering order to a campus open house. Inspired by the architectural models and student work on display, he knew he had found the place where he would pursue his childhood dream of becoming an architect.

After graduating as Valedictorian from NewSchool of Architecture & Design with a Bachelor of Architecture and minors in Construction Management and Neuroscience for Architecture, Tommy immediately joined the faculty, teaching Environmental Systems I & II while launching his career with De Bartolo & Rimanic Design Studies (DBRDS). At DBRDS, Tommy has contributed to multifamily residential, hospitality, mixed-use, and religious projects as a Design Coordinator.

As he balanced teaching with professional practice, Tommy gained valuable field experience while preparing for the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Architectural Registration Examinations (ARE). This combination allowed him to bring current industry practices and real-world project experience directly into the classroom, helping prepare students not only for academic success but also for practice and licensure.

Reflecting on his time at NewSchool, Tommy credits mentors Alan Rosenblum and Daniela Deutsch with shaping his approach to design through curiosity, critical thinking, and purposeful problem-solving. He also credits his involvement with NewSchool’s American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) chapter with helping shape his professional network and leadership skills. During his tenure as AIAS Chapter President, he received both the Chapter Honor Award and the Chapter President Honor Award in 2019, while forging lasting connections that continue to shape his career.

Outside of practice and teaching, Tommy has remained active in the profession through leadership roles with the Balboa Park Committee of 100, the NewSchool Foundation, and the San Diego Architectural Foundation (SDAF), where he served as Membership Committee Chair and co-chair of the Orchids & Onions program. He currently serves as Faculty Advisor for NewSchool’s AIAS chapter, continuing his commitment to mentoring future architects.

Beyond architecture, Tommy also enjoys graphic design and currently creates designs for ThaRiches, a Los Angeles-based clothing designer whose line was featured during Bad Bunny’s 2026 halftime performance.

Tommy became a licensed architect in the State of California in July 2026, achieving a goal he had pursued since childhood.

Looking back on his own journey, Tommy offers this advice to current students:

“Architecture school is not just about learning how to design buildings—it’s about learning how to observe, think critically, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems.”