Telesis, the Gibbs College of Architecture’s award-winning student journal, is releasing its fifth edition in Fall 2023. This edition, “Adaptive Practice,” called for contributions from interdisciplinary problem solvers who reject the status quo and redefine “business as usual” through their work.
Telesis “Adaptive Practice” features work that aids in the restructuring of current practices, addresses the ever-changing socioeconomic and political climates and dives deep into the ideals of adaptive practice in the built environment and beyond. The word “adaptive” invokes ideas of fluidity and change, an ever-present evolution of ideals and methodologies.
A spread from Telesis: Adaptive Practice.
According to the publication, “Adaptive practice in architecture acknowledges the dynamic nature of contemporary society and seeks to create buildings and spaces that can respond to evolving needs and conditions. This approach is particularly relevant in an era marked by rapid urbanization, climate change, and technological advancements, which are transforming the way we live and work.”
Produced by students, Telesis has been recognized by national awards and grants for its exceptional quality. During its first year, the journal was awarded the Douglas Haskell Award for Student Journals. Telesis was also awarded a grant from the Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in Fine Art which assisted with the publication “Habitation” and “Adaptive Practice.” Telesis “Isolation” was awarded the 2022 Douglas Haskell Award for Student Journals.
A spread from Telesis: Adaptive Practice.
This issue was coordinated by Felipe Flores, Architecture Ph.D. student and course instructor of Telesis, and Angela Person, Associate Professor of Architecture and Faculty Advisor of Telesis. The contributing student authors in Telesis “Adaptive Practice” include Ben Jawad, Fadi Kandalaft, Trey London, Jordan Fields, Abigail Janka, Kayarash Kayarami, and Kevin Michael Ozmum.
View the PDF of Telesis “Adaptive Practice” below or on the Telesis webpage.
The Gibbs Design in Action Awards (GDAA) program, led by Dr. Wanda Liebermann, has announced its 2026–2027 funded student projects. The initiative supports design and research work that addresses social, cultural, and economic issues in the built environment through collaboration with faculty and community partners.
The OU Institute for Quality Communities (IQC) 2024 collaboration with the Historic Threatt Filling Station has been recognized in the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City's newly released Byways Report: The Scenic Route to Rural Prosperity – a story-driven publication exploring how road trip culture and place-based tourism can fuel economic growth in rural communities.
The Gibbs College of Architecture is pleased to announce that Camille Germany, Chief of Staff, has been named the 2026 recipient of the university-wide Jennifer L. Wise Good Stewardship Award.
