The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture is pleased to announce a new opportunity to support the continued study and preservation of the American School—a transformative approach to architectural education rooted at the University of Oklahoma (OU) in the 1950s and ’60s. At the heart of the American School architectural movement are three powerful principles: contextual, resourceful, and experimental. These guiding themes have shaped an approach to design that considers local geography, resources, and communities, creating timeless architecture that resonates deeply with its environment.
To advance this legacy, the American School of Architecture Strategic Priorities Fund was established to provide flexible support for programs and initiatives that promote research, scholarship, and public engagement. These include guest lectures, exhibitions, publications, and archival acquisitions that enrich the American School Archive at OU.
Double Your Impact
In support of this effort, Sherry Faust has committed $100,000 in matching funds, meaning every gift of $1,000 or more will be matched dollar for dollar—doubling the value of each contribution. Gifts of $5,000 or more may be pledged over two years.
This matching opportunity builds upon previous investments by the Faust family and represents a continued commitment to honoring the legacy of architect and educator Bob Faust, a student of Bruce Goff and a lifelong advocate for the values of the American School.
Matching funds have already made possible several exciting projects, including:
Make a Contribution
By contributing now, donors will help ensure that the Archive remains a living resource for students, scholars, and practitioners. The fund directly supports the infrastructure needed to preserve and share the American School’s rich history with future generations.
To make a gift or learn more, visit give.oufoundation.org/AmericanSchool, or contact:
Josh Hall
Senior Director of Development
jshall@ou.edu
Featured image: Prairie House, Herb Greene. Photograph courtesy of Bob Bowlby, American School Archives, University of Oklahoma Libraries.
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.
