The Gibbs Design Activism Awards (GDAA) is a new grant initiative that supports student-led design and research projects that critically engage topics of community, social, and economic concern within the built environment—at Gibbs College, on the University of Oklahoma (OU) Campus, and across Oklahoma. The GDAA is consistent with OU’s Lead On Plan to advance principles of equity, diversity, and belonging specifically articulated in Pillars 4 and 5. The GDAA was made possible with support from the OU Institute for Community and Society Transformation and the Institute for Quality Communities.
Student projects can address economic, social, cultural and public health challenges and problems which manifest in physical space and the built environment. Proposals that address underrepresented and underserved groups and communities in the design fields are especially welcome.
Awards range from $1,500-$8,000. Number of awarded projects depends on applications. Applicants may apply for awards up to $8,000. There will be two information sessions – March 28, at noon in the Gould Hall Buskuhl Gallery, and April 11, at noon on Zoom.
The GDAA supports proposals in three categories – community connections, special events and exhibits, and curricular interventions. All applications must list a Gibbs College faculty sponsor.
*****GDAA DEADLINE EXTENSION*****
The deadline for submissions to the Gibbs Design Activism Awards has been extended to Friday, April 29 at 6pm.
For more information on how to apply, contact faculty organizer Dr. Wanda Katja Liebermann [wkliebermann@ou.edu].
The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture congratulates Dr. Tammy McCuen, Robert E. Busch Professor of Construction Science, on beginning her term as president of the Associated Schools of Construction (ASC), an international organization dedicated to advancing construction education through teaching, research and service.
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.
