Architectural community engagement in Norman, Oklahoma

The Institute for Quality Communities, located at 830 Van Vleet Oval in Norman, Oklahoma, is a community engagement program within the University of Oklahoma Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture. IQC partners with Oklahoma communities to address local challenges and brings best practices to Oklahomans through the biennial Placemaking Conference. The institute manages the Environmental Design degree program for undergraduate students. Last school year, Interior Design students within the Gibbs College of Architecture assisted the L'Ouverture Historical Committee in the City of McAlester with plans to preserve the historic L'Ouverture High School. During the Spring 2023 semester, IQC worked with the town of Westville, OK, on projects to revitalize the town and improve accessibility and connectivity.

Located at 731 Elm Avenue in Norman, Oklahoma, the OU Graduate College offers over 260 master's and doctoral-level majors for students to pursue their passions. With a focus on holistic education, the university community is positive and engaged, providing students with the support they need to succeed. From coaching and mentoring to academic practices, the Graduate College ensures academic quality and consistency. One inspiring story is that of Boushra, a Ph.D. candidate from Lebanon who found a sense of community within the Stephenson Biomedical Engineering Department at OU. Her determination and departmental support have allowed her to research regenerative knee cartilage while raising her son. The Graduate College is dedicated to guiding, supporting, and enhancing the educational experience of all graduate students at the university.