A sketch Chase included in his master’s thesis is on display at the exhibit. Aneesh Tiwari/TSTV News
The University of Texas has announced plans to name the Architecture and Planning Library after John S. Chase, the first Black graduate of the School of Architecture and the first licensed Black architect in the state of Texas. The School of Architecture is also holding an exhibition in recognition of the centennial anniversary of Chase, who died in 2012.
The naming was made possible by a $5 million pledge by Chase’s son and daughter-in-law, according to the university.
“Our hope is that having my father’s name and story of perseverance and positive change affixed to this library will inspire future generations of students to broaden their awareness of what is possible,” Tony Chase, John Chase’s son, said in a UT News press release.
The library, which is temporarily closed due to ongoing renovations, is located in Battle Hall.
“John Chase was an exceptional UT student and graduate who paved the way for progress and change as one of the University’s first Black students,” UT President Jay Hartzell said in a UT News press release. “He then utilized his considerable talents, creativity and education to design special places that brought people together.”
Assistant professor Tara Dudley organized the exhibition, which includes information about Chase’s time at UT and his work as an architect.
“I think it’s very exciting and most fitting for the architecture library to be named after Mr. Chase, who was so influential, not only encouraging more African-American students to enroll in the School of Architecture, but for diverse students and audiences and supporting those students through things like the John S. Chase Presidential Scholarship,” Dudley said.
Chase enrolled at the University of Texas in 1950, just two days after the landmark Supreme Court decision in Sweatt v. Painter, which led to desegregation in graduate school education. Chase would go on to obtain his master’s in architecture before establishing his own architectural firm in 1954.
Chase’s firm was contracted to design various projects on campus including the San Antonio Garage and Mike A. Myers Stadium. Other notable buildings designed by Chase include the George R. Brown Convention Center and Harris County Astrodome Renovation in Houston, according to the School of Architecture.
“I think the exhibition provides a new generation of students and faculty and the general public with information about Mr. Chase, those who might not be familiar with his life and career and legacy,” Dudley said. “It’s important to recall his life and his contributions not only to the field of architecture, but also to the University of Texas.”
The exhibition can be found inside Goldsmith Hall and will remain up through Feb. 28.