Dr. Ladan Mozaffarian, assistant professor in the Division of Planning, Landscape Architecture and Design, recently participated in the esteemed International Conference on Urban Affairs. This annual event brings together urban-focused researchers, planners and policy advocates to examine strategies to make cities more equitable and resilient. This year’s conference was held April 24-27 in New York City.
During the conference, Mozaffarian presented her research concerning the importance of community engagement in urban economic development practices. Her study sheds light on the consequences of limited community involvement and civic inclusion during the establishment and execution of innovation districts.
Innovation districts are distinct geographic areas designed around anchor institutions like universities, hospitals and local government entities. According to Mozaffarian, these designated zones represent contemporary economic development models. Her research underscores the critical role of community participation in shaping and enhancing the outcomes of urban development initiatives.
The Gibbs Design in Action Awards (GDAA) program, led by Dr. Wanda Liebermann, has announced its 2026–2027 funded student projects. The initiative supports design and research work that addresses social, cultural, and economic issues in the built environment through collaboration with faculty and community partners.
The OU Institute for Quality Communities (IQC) 2024 collaboration with the Historic Threatt Filling Station has been recognized in the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City's newly released Byways Report: The Scenic Route to Rural Prosperity – a story-driven publication exploring how road trip culture and place-based tourism can fuel economic growth in rural communities.
The Gibbs College of Architecture is pleased to announce that Camille Germany, Chief of Staff, has been named the 2026 recipient of the university-wide Jennifer L. Wise Good Stewardship Award.
