OU Institute for Quality Communities

The OU Institute for Quality Communities is a community engagement program located in Norman, Oklahoma. As part of the University of Oklahoma Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture, the Institute was founded in 2008 by former OU President David L. Boren and First Lady Molly Shi Boren. IQC partners with Oklahoma towns and cities to address local challenges. They work with mayors, city managers, and civic organizations to identify problems in the built environment. Students from the Environmental Design degree program, which IQC manages, collaborate on projects, gathering community input, analyzing conditions, and developing solutions. IQC has completed over 50 community projects across 28 Oklahoma counties, resulting in adopted plans, successful grant applications, and implemented changes. They also host the biennial Placemaking Conference, featuring nationally-renowned experts in city design and development. This conference aims to inspire action and connect Oklahomans with ideas that improve their communities. The Institute for Quality Communities can be reached through their website at iqc.ou.edu.