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.
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.
