The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture is pleased to share that Frank Hicks, a graduate student in the Division of Planning, Landscape Architecture and Design, has been selected for the Landscape Architecture Foundation’s (LAF) Ignite Program.
Ignite is a national, multi-year program that provides participants with a $10,000 annual scholarship, paid summer internships, and one-on-one professional mentorship. Each year, only 4–7 students from across the country are chosen to join this prestigious program. With Frank’s incoming class, the Ignite cohort will grow to a total of 15 participants.
Frank earned his Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design from OU in 2024 and is now pursuing a Master of Landscape Architecture, expected in 2026. He is also an active member of the American Society of Landscape Architects Student Chapter (SCASLA).
Through Ignite, Frank will have the opportunity to gain valuable professional experience, connect with mentors in the field, and continue building his leadership skills as he prepares for a career in landscape architecture.
“I’m so proud of Frank. Being selected as one of just 15 Landscape Architecture students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs across the country to participate in the program is a major accomplishment,” said Dr. Sarah Little, associate professor of Landscape Architecture at OU. “In addition to his professional and personal growth, his participation in Ignite propels the MLA@OU program onto a national stage.”
Gibbs College congratulates Frank on this achievement and looks forward to celebrating his continued success. To learn more, view the LAF Ignite announcement.
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.
Ronald Frantz Jr., emeritus professor, has been named a 2026 Mary Means Leadership Award recipient, the highest honor presented by Main Street America. The award was announced at the Main Street Now Conference in Tulsa, recognizing leaders who advance preservation-based economic development and community revitalization.
