Weldon Bowman, founder and principal of W Design and an OU M.Arch alumnus of the Tulsa Urban Design Studio, has been named the Tulsa Regional Chamber’s Small-Business Person of the Year. The award came as part of the Tulsa Small Business Summit and Awards event, where individuals and companies were recognized for their community and industry impacts.
“Small businesses make a tremendous impact on our region,” said Kathy Duck, executive director of the Tulsa Small Business Connection. “A strong small business community is a reflection of a strong regional economy, and this event is an opportunity to highlight the incredible work of our entrepreneurs and business owners.”
More information about the award event can be found on the Tulsa Regional Chamber website, while a quote from Weldon Bowman can be found in a related article from the Tulsa World.
[Featured image: W Design’s design for the Petroleum Equipment Institute in Tulsa, Oklahoma]
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.
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.
