David Boeck, Associate Professor of Architecture, just received the University of Oklahoma’s General Education Teaching Award. He was honored at the Faculty Awards Luncheon on April 14th for the award.
Professor Boeck has been teaching in the Gibbs College of Architecture since 2007. He has regularly taught sections of Architecture for Non-Majors (ARCH 3013) as well as Creativity Through Sketching (ARCH 4513) year-round. Both courses are often primarily made up of students from outside of both the Division of Architecture as well as Gibbs College.
Dr. Stephanie Pilat, Director of the Division of Architecture, writes “Professor Boeck has developed a reputation for his enthusiasm and the encouraging atmosphere he creates in the classroom. Though most of the students who enroll in these courses have little to no knowledge of architecture or design, Professor Boeck seeks to develop a love of design and confidence in each and every student. Over the years, Professor Boeck has taught hundreds and hundreds of students in these courses making him a well-known figure on campus and throughout Norman.”
Professor Boeck has become known for creating an inclusive classroom that caters to all skill levels. Students who have no experience with architecture or sketching are still able to enjoy and excel in his course. Lauren Kennedy, Class of 2022 student, wrote in support of Professor Boeck, “He welcomed all levels of experience, and adjusted his sketching techniques so that all skill levels could comprehend and grow. His hands-on teaching creates an intimate setting where no one is afraid to seek help or become inspired. Professor Boeck taught us that creativity is a cultivativable skill, and was determined to show us this through collaborative projects and individual assessments.”
Professor Boeck’s courses show students the importance of the built environment as well as inspire them to cultivate their creative skills, no matter their major. Gibbs College Dean Hans Butzer writes, “He connects students from across OU with the knowledge and an awareness of how their built environments affect one’s health and sense of identity. Prof. Boeck also captures their unique roles as agents in shaping their communities, as well as how to creatively solve problems and communicate using sketching as a tool.”
Congratulations to Professor Boeck on his well-deserved recognition!
Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture assistant professor Amy Leveno and Mark Leveno, co-founders of OFFICIAL Design, have received a 2026 AIA Central States Region Design Award for the firm’s Granger Annex Community Center project in Garland, Texas.
Construction Industry Speaker Series welcomed Stephen Evans from the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum to give a lecture on better conversations and relationship building.
The University of Oklahoma Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture Hall of Fame recognizes a select number of high-character individuals who have made a significant and lasting positive impact on Gibbs College, its students, staff, faculty, alumni and/or to communities across the globe. The impact may have been, or continues to be, in the form of service and mentorship, sustained professional excellence, and/or advancement and financial support. Joseph Edgar Smay is part of the 2025 Hall of Fame class.
