In Memory of Professor Barry Norwood – By Dean Ikhlas Sabouni
Yesterday morning I was meeting with the new School of Architecture students. I thought about Professor Norwood who would be standing in the back making sure all the students were in the auditorium to find out information about the new academic year…..but he was not there. He is in a better place.
That moment reminded me of all the recruiting activities that he and I attended at high schools and community colleges. He was always ready with all the posters, brochures, and table covers, with a giant smile on his face. Especially after he had already eaten the food provided on these college nights.
We brought talented students who became very successful professionals in architecture and construction science who are leading firms and making their mark in their communities. He will live on in their memories and in the work they produce.
The study abroad program started with Barry sending me a few students to convince me to support them in their travel to Rome, Italy. That was the first trip abroad. His most memorable trip with his students was to Dubai. Although he is no longer with us in person, the program pushes forward, and our students just returned to Rome.
In other memories of his travels with students, he drove them to Chaco Canyon and Mesa Verde every Spring for a 10-day trip. They studied the Anasazi Indian ruins and always ended the trip fishing for rainbow trout in freezing cold rivers.
Barry also took students to state and national Lego design competitions, beating out the major league schools. He also led our students to multiple victories at the AIA Sandcastle competition.
He mentored many young students and helped them achieve their goals of becoming architects. Under his supervision, his students worked on community service and historical preservation projects.
Barry Norwood will always be remembered for the legacy he left through his students. His compassion, diligence, and care he had for each student will forever be remembered.
God bless his soul and provide peace for his family and loved ones.
