Arnold “Arn” Glenn Henderson, FAIA, passed away on June 27, 2019.
Arn was Professor Emeritus of the University of Oklahoma Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture. A proponent and advocate of historical preservation throughout our country and, in particular, his home state of Oklahoma, Arn was also a poet, author and lifelong student of other cultures. He was an advocate of Bruce Goff’s teaching and the American School legacy, and he helped ensure the impact of the Bruce Goff Chair of Creative Architecture in its early years.
Arn designed and built his home of 42 years, which was recognized by the Oklahoma Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) for its unique design in 1976. In 1996, he was elevated to the AIA College of Fellows, the AIA’s highest membership honor, for his exceptional work and contribution to the industry and his community. Less than 5% of AIA members hold this distinction.
Arn is remembered and celebrated by the Gibbs College of Architecture for his nearly 70-year commitment to the program. He was a friend, a mentor, and an advocate for all whom he taught.
Son of Henry and Pearlee, brother to Lyndal, father of two children and grandfather to two, Arn was preceded in death by his parents, sister, wife, and a son. He is survived by a son and two grandsons.
On April 24, 2026, the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture hosted its annual Graduate Student Showcase, a celebration of research, design innovation, and creative exploration across all graduate programs within the College.
The Gibbs College of Architecture celebrates fifth-year architecture student Haley Praytor, who has been recognized at the national level for her design work. In early March, Haley received a Graduate Division Award of Merit for her submission to the 2025 Metal Building Manufacturers Association student design competition.
Ronald Frantz Jr., emeritus professor, has been named a 2026 Mary Means Leadership Award recipient, the highest honor presented by Main Street America. The award was announced at the Main Street Now Conference in Tulsa, recognizing leaders who advance preservation-based economic development and community revitalization.
