Robert L. Wesley, a pioneering architect and beloved mentor, has died at age 88.
A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Wesley joined Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in 1964 and became the firm's first Black partner in 1984. Throughout his career, he contributed to significant architectural projects while maintaining a strong commitment to civic engagement and professional mentorship.
His commitment to nurturing emerging talent inspired the SOM Foundation to establish the Robert L. Wesley Award in 2020, which provides support to BIPOC students pursuing careers in architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture, urban design, and engineering. To date, twenty-five students have received the award.
Robert L. Wesley.
Iker Gil, Executive Director of the SOM Foundation, noted Wesley's continued involvement with the award program: "Working alongside Bob since 2020 has been a privilege. He was an inspiration to all of us at the SOM Foundation as well as to the mentors and students who have received the Robert L. Wesley Award so far. Bob was directly involved in reviewing applications, an active participant in mentorship sessions, and dedicated to ensuring we did everything we could to support students."
Wesley's legacy in architecture and design education will continue through the students and professionals he mentored throughout his career. Learn more about Robert L. Wesley.
On April 24, 2026, the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture hosted its annual Graduate Student Showcase, a celebration of research, design innovation, and creative exploration across all graduate programs within the College.
The Gibbs College of Architecture celebrates fifth-year architecture student Haley Praytor, who has been recognized at the national level for her design work. In early March, Haley received a Graduate Division Award of Merit for her submission to the 2025 Metal Building Manufacturers Association student design competition.
Ronald Frantz Jr., emeritus professor, has been named a 2026 Mary Means Leadership Award recipient, the highest honor presented by Main Street America. The award was announced at the Main Street Now Conference in Tulsa, recognizing leaders who advance preservation-based economic development and community revitalization.
