A group of 21 undergraduate Architecture students from the Gibbs College of Architecture recently embarked on a weeklong field trip to New York City. Accompanied by Professors Amber Brown, Paolo Sanza, and Francesco Cianfarani, the students immersed themselves in the vibrant architectural culture of Manhattan and Brooklyn, visiting landmark sites and award-winning design firms.
They began at Hudson Yards, then walking the High Line, and throughout the week, the group toured iconic destinations including the Oculus at the World Trade Center, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the New York Public Library. They also had the opportunity to experience world-renowned art and architecture at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), deepening their understanding of the relationship between design, culture, and history.
While visiting the New York Public Library, students Noah Palmer, Cristian Rojo, and Youssef Moustaader listen to stories about NYC told by architect and tour guide Billy Reue. Photo credit: Amber Brown.
In addition to visiting notable sites, students toured a Brooklyn building under construction by Levine Builders as well as two leading architecture firms Ten Berke Architects and Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, gaining firsthand insight into professional practice, firm culture, and the design process from some of the top minds in the field.
Students at the office of Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects. Architect Tod Williams center back. Photographer unknown.
The students also had the opportunity to attend a special alumni dinner, where they networked with OU Architecture alumni now working in New York City. Special thanks to Amy Shell Voroneanu, Khoi Nguyen, and Julie Tran for joining the students and sharing their professional journeys and advice.
The NYC field trip offered students an invaluable chance to see some of the world’s most innovative architecture up close, connect with alumni, and envision the diverse career pathways available to them after graduation.
Students grab coffee to kick-start another day in NYC! Most prominently featured left to right: Kel McDavid, Ethan Howard and Logan Fuchs. Photo credit: Amber Brown.
A special thanks goes to New York City-based architect William “Billy” Reue, who was instrumental in helping to organize and coordinate all aspects of the trip. This is his fourth year to be involved as a coordinator and tour guide. His knowledge and support made it possible for students to access unique experiences and connections throughout the city.
Featured Image: Design 6 Studio atop 1057 Atlantic Ave. in Brooklyn, New York. Photo credit: Jordan Zitman (Levine Builders)
Petya Stefanoff, Chair of the Educational Committee with the American Planning Association, Oklahoma Chapter (APA-OK) and Gibbs College PhD candidate, has developed a new training program for local government officials. The program, focused on land use, zoning principles, and land development, recently certified its first graduates with Certified Citizen Planner status.
Gibbs Construction Science and Architecture students recently traveled to Dublin, Ireland, to compete in the Associated Schools of Construction (ASC) Region 8 Student Competition. The team partnered with Czech Technical University and secured third place in the Design-Build category.
Gibbs College is pleased to present the exhibition Vollendorf in Oklahoma: The Architecture of Dean Bryant Vollendorf during the Spring 2026 semester. It will be on display in Gould Hall, on the OU-Norman Campus, from February 16, 2026 - March 13, 2026.
