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.
A team of Construction Science and Architecture students from the Gibbs College of Architecture made their mark on the national stage this week, earning third place out of 37 universities competing at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Student Competition, held during the International Builders' Show in Orlando, February 16-18, 2026.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has elevated Gary Armbruster, FAIA, ALEP to its prestigious College of Fellows—AIA’s highest membership honor—for his exceptional work and sustained contributions to architecture and society. Fellowship recognizes architects who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession and made a significant impact at a national level. Members elevated to this distinction carry the FAIA designation after their name.
Students from the Spring 2026 Graduate 4 Architecture Design Studio, led by Professor Amy Leveno, exhibited their work at the School of Visual Arts. The exhibition, titled Reimagining the OU School of Visual Arts, featured drawings, models, and animations developed throughout the semester's studio project. The show was hosted in The Spotlight, a creative gallery space located on the first floor of the Fred Jones Art Center, and ran from January 20–30, 2026.
