The Division of Planning, Landscape Architecture, and Design at the University of Oklahoma’s Gibbs College is pleased to announce the appointment of incoming Assistant Professor, Dr. Wei Liu, beginning in Fall 2025.
An award-winning scholar, urban designer, and AICP-certified planner, Dr. Liu brings a strong record of research, teaching, and community engagement. His work focuses on strategies that help communities thrive by enhancing public spaces, encouraging collaboration, and supporting practical design solutions that make a lasting difference.
In his role as Assistant Professor, Dr. Liu will contribute in two key areas. He will teach core courses in the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design program, preparing students for careers that shape the built and natural environments. Additionally, he will work with communities across Oklahoma on applied planning and design projects through the OU Institute for Quality Communities (IQC).
Dr. Amber Wiley, Director of the IQC, shared, “It is an absolute pleasure to welcome Wei to the team! His enthusiasm, expertise, and knowledge have already proven to be assets for the projects we will take on this academic year. I know he will make a strong impact here in the state of Oklahoma.”
Please join us in welcoming Assistant Professor Dr. Wei Liu to the Gibbs College community!
Gibbs College of Architecture is proud to recognize Petya Stefanoff, who is pursuing her doctorate in the Planning, Design & Construction (PDC) program, has been appointed the new role of Director of Community Development for the City of Shawnee, Oklahoma. She joined the city in 2024.
Gibbs College of Architecture is pleased to announce that Amber N. Wiley, Ph.D., associate professor in the Division of Planning, Landscape Architecture and Design and director of the Institute for Quality Communities, has received national recognition for her book Model Schools in the Model City. The book has been named a finalist for the 2026 the PROSE Awards.
Gibbs College of Architecture Regional + City Planning Professor of Practice Vanessa Morrison and Associate Professor of Architecture Deborah Richards’ Open Design Collective received top honors at the inaugural BlackSpace Urbanist Collective Studio KIN Pitch Night Competition, held last month in Brooklyn, New York City.
