Dear UH Community,
Patricia Belton Oliver joined the University of Houston as dean of the Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design in January 2010. For 16 years, she has worked to broaden the college’s academic focus and elevate its reputation as a destination for aspiring architects and designers.
Dean Oliver has informed me of her decision to retire from her post. We will soon assemble a committee to begin a nationwide search for a new dean. Until a finalist is identified, Dean Oliver will continue to lead the college.
During her tenure, Dean Oliver expanded the college’s academic offerings and strengthened its international profile. Under her leadership, faculty earned commendations for their contributions to communities locally and around the globe. The college also welcomed world-renowned architects, including Thom Mayne, enriching the academic experience for students and faculty alike. Students have thrived as well, earning national awards for their work.
Dean Oliver also played a key role in securing two major gifts from the college’s namesake. In 2017, Gerald D. Hines donated $1 million to build the college’s Advanced Media Technology Laboratory. Two years later, he contributed $500,000 toward the Bill Kendall Memorial Endowed Professorship.
Please join me in extending our thanks to Dean Oliver for her service to UH and for continuing to lead the college until a new dean is identified.
Respectfully,
Diane Z. Chase
Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
University of Houston