The OU Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture is pleased to announce the Leadership in Built Environment Research (L-BER) seed funding program. This pilot program is designed to equip faculty with mentorship, strategic collaboration opportunities, and resources to secure major external funding and lead interdisciplinary research initiatives. Funding for this project is from the University of Oklahoma Office of the Vice President for Research and Partnerships.
The inaugural pilot project was selected following a blind peer review process. Led by Dr. Ladan Mozaffarian, an assistant professor of Regional and City Planning in the Gibbs College of Architecture, the project is titled “Data-Driven Approaches for Addressing Rural Transportation Challenges and Enhancing Community Health and Wellbeing.”
Dr. Mozaffarian’s project examines transportation challenges in rural areas, focusing on infrastructure, safety, and climate issues that limit access to essential services. Using Oklahoma as a case study, it combines machine learning analysis and local insights to identify solutions. The goal is to provide recommendations to improve transportation infrastructure, safety, and emergency response, promoting more accessible and sustainable rural mobility.
Congratulations to Dr. Mozaffarian!
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.
