Dr. Suchi Bhattacharjee, Dr. Chie Noyori-Corbett, and Ph.D. candidate Salma Akter have collaborated on a chapter titled “Sheltering Hope: Navigating the Nexus of Refugee Housing Conditions and Well-Being”, featured in the book Migration and Forced Displacement - Vulnerability and Resilience - Volume 2. This work examines the intricate relationship between housing conditions and the physical and mental well-being of refugees, both in temporary shelters and during post-resettlement.
Dr. Chie Noyori-Corbett serves as Associate Director of Research at the Anne and Henry Zarrow School of Social Work. Dr. Suchi Bhattacharjee is Associate Dean of Academic and College Administration for Gibbs College, as well as an associate professor and graduate liaison in the Division of Interior Design. Salma Akter is a Ph.D. candidate at the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture.
The chapter emphasizes housing as a critical social determinant of health and well-being, recognized as a fundamental right under the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Drawing on existing literature, the authors explore key challenges faced by refugees, such as overcrowding, inadequate sanitation, and instability in both camp settings and resettlement environments. They also examine the broader concept of “healthy housing,” which encompasses not only shelter but also factors like safety, privacy, and psychological well-being, all of which are essential for fostering social integration and stability.
By integrating findings from global studies, the chapter discusses barriers to housing affordability and stability, including discrimination, high rental costs, and limited access to public housing. It also highlights the importance of community integration, placemaking, and inclusive housing policies in promoting a sense of identity and belonging among refugees. Practical recommendations include improving access to affordable housing, enhancing support services, and fostering transparent and accountable housing systems.
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.
