Gibbs College of Architecture is pleased to announce that Amber N. Wiley, Ph.D., associate professor in the Division of Planning, Landscape Architecture and Design and director of the Institute for Quality Communities, has received national recognition for her book Model Schools in the Model City. The book has been named a finalist for the 2026 Association of American Publishers Awards for Professional and Scholarly Excellence, known as the PROSE Awards, in the category of Social Sciences: Architecture and Urban Planning.
“This recognition came as a complete surprise, but I welcome the honor,” Wiley said. “The PROSE Awardees' work represents an unparalleled depth and breadth of subject matter expertise.”
Model Schools in the Model City
The PROSE Awards have recognized excellence in professional and scholarly publishing since 1976. The awards honor authors, editors, and publishers whose work makes significant contributions to their fields. The Association of American Publishers represents the nation’s leading book, journal, and education publishers and advocates for policies that support the creation and dissemination of professional and academic knowledge.
Published by the University of Pittsburgh Press, Model Schools in the Model City examines how Black Washingtonians influenced urban planning and design policy for public education. The book contributes to scholarship in architectural history and urban studies and highlights the role of community leadership in shaping educational environments.
The book has also received national recognition as a finalist for the 2026 ASALH book prize.
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.
