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During the Fall 2018 semester, freshmen architecture students enrolled in Hans E. Butzer’s and Angela Person’s Methods I class produced videos about their plans to contribute to the legacy of The American School of architecture developed at the University of Oklahoma in the 1950s and 1960s. Read on to be inspired by these students’ dreams!
To view a playlist of “Our Legacy” videos, click here.
Above: Taylor Benfer’s “Our Legacy” video (2018)
Excerpts from some of the scripts are found below:
“What could be better than contributing to the legacy of The American School of Architecture? The school that values contextual, resourceful, and entrepreneurial design. The school that broke the mold and encouraged individuals and their creativity and passion for architecture. The school whose great legacy includes such architects as Herb Greene, Donald MacDonald, Fred Schmidt, and many more. The school whose ideals and principles produced buildings like the Prairie House, Bavinger House, and Oral Roberts University buildings. The school that welcomes you, and can’t wait to see what you contribute.” –Brian Gorishek & Rose Arango
“The OU architecture program emphasizes the importance of contextual, resourceful design and following one’s creative intuition.” –Jill Kozlowski & Montana Sutton
“I wish to create, not copy.” –Marshal Berry & Landon Nett
“The American School was and is a school of renegade architects, a school of creative and innovative minds with the power to experiment, and design through their own experiences… Be inspired. Be creative.” –Aaron Weir & Jaxson Bailey
“I hope to not only learn how to be a great architect, but how to think differently, to use my skills to benefit society in new and unexpected ways… This is our legacy. What’s yours?” –Kyler Smith
Following years of contributions to the College’s research and strategic initiatives, Gibbs College shares that Associate Dean for Research and External Engagement Angela M. Person, PhD, will step down from her position at Gibbs College as she moves to Tucson with her family, effective June 30, 2026.
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.
