After demolishing its previous building in April, Oklahoma Hillels began the second phase of construction for a new OU Hillel. Following land prep, phase two will consist of installing utilities, pouring foundations and constructing the building’s exterior. Oklahoma Hillels began fundraising for the project over two years ago, having since raised more than $5 million toward its $7.3 million goal.
The previous OU Hillel building, which was in operation since 1952, closed in 2023 after being deemed unsafe. Kasi Shelton, Oklahoma Hillels executive director, attributed its closure mainly to the presence of mold and asbestos from water leaks.
“Gibbs architecture students represented OU’s chapter of NOMAS (National Organization of Minority Architect Students) at the 2024 National Organization of Minority Architects Conference in Baltimore, Maryland. The annual NOMA conference brings together NOMA members, allies and students to engage in thought-provoking seminar sessions, connect with industry experts and celebrate member achievements.
Accompanied by their NOMA faculty advisor Shooka Motamedi, students Terry Chishimba, Ashley Gonzalez, Grace Hill, Roy Nitzan, Hishaam Ramoly presented the OU NOMAS chapter's project, SEAM, and competed in the Barbara G. Laurie Student Design Competition. For the competition, the students focused on the repurposing of an abandoned highway that bisects an urban community with a new transit hub, housing and commercial development.”
