The new and soon-to-open First American Museum was recently featured in a piece by The Oklahoman, with the headline, “‘This project has persevered’: Get a first look at Oklahoma City’s First Americans Museum.” After years of construction and planning, the museum plans to open in Oklahoma City this September. According to the museum’s website, “In one place, visitors will experience the collective histories of 39 distinctive First American Nations in Oklahoma today. First Americans Museum will share the cultural diversity, history, and contributions of the First Americans.”
David Hornbeek, Edmond architect at Hornbleek Blatt Architects and OU Architecture alumnus, has been involved with the museum and is excited about the grand opening. In the article, he expresses the importance of telling these stories and sharing them from the tribe’s perspective. The stories throughout the museum are told from a personal perspective with interviews from current tribal members.
Robert L. Wesley, a pioneering architect and beloved mentor, has died at age 88. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Wesley joined Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in 1964 and became the firm's first Black partner in 1984. Throughout his career, he contributed to significant architectural projects while maintaining a strong commitment to civic engagement and professional mentorship.
The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture is proud to celebrate a series of recent accomplishments by Dr. Jim Collard, Professor of Practice in the Division of Planning, Landscape Architecture, and Design, whose work continues to shape conversations around Indigenous economic development nationally and internationally.
University of Oklahoma Gibbs College of Architecture Dean Hans E. [PA1.1]Butzer returned to one of his most significant works on December 15, joining survivors and past and present board members for the groundbreaking of a $15.8 million expansion of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum.
