Tahsin Tabassum, a second year student at OU’s master’s program in Regional and City Planning, has been honored with the Ed McClure Award for Best Master’s Student Paper by the Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning (ACSP). Her paper, titled “Exploring Transportation Justice and Equity through the Transportation Justice Threshold Index Framework in Municipalities of Oklahoma County, Oklahoma,” was recognized for its innovative approach to addressing transportation equity. Her paper was developed as part of a project for her “Transportation Geography and Planning” course.
Tabassum’s research focuses on analyzing transportation justice using the Transportation Justice Threshold Index Framework within municipalities in Oklahoma County. Her work aims to identify disparities in the transportation system and provide practical recommendations to promote equitable urban mobility. By addressing these issues, her study contributes to creating more inclusive and accessible transportation options for all community members.
The award includes a $1,000 prize and the opportunity for Tabassum to present her findings at the upcoming ACSP Annual Conference in Seattle. This recognition highlights the significance of her research in the field of urban planning and its potential impact on addressing transportation inequalities.
Originally from Bangladesh, Tabassum earned her bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) before pursuing her master’s degree at OU. Her personal experiences navigating public transportation as an international student in the United States inspired her to delve into issues of transportation justice and equity.
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.
