by Amanda Stevens
Daily Lobo
Van Gilbert, a local architect whose projects include the Albuquerque Aquarium and the Lobo Tennis Club, gave a tearful thank you to his family as he accepted a UNM alumni award.
"This is a man who never breaks a sweat," said Gilbert's former colleague and friend, Pam Hurd-Knief. "He's always cool, calm and collected. That's why seeing him get so choked up was such a big deal."
Gilbert was the first person to graduate with a master's degree from UNM's School of Architecture and Planning in 1971. He was given the Distinguished Alumni Award on Friday in the SUB.
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Gilbert gave a small speech about the importance in giving back to the University after graduation.
"In the future, everyone gets the opportunity to give back," Gilbert said. "Sometime in the future, your money will be important to keep this school running."
Five years ago, Gilbert headed a campaign to raise money for a new Architecture and Planning building, George Pearl Hall, which will be built east of the bookstore. Gilbert, along with other alumni, helped raise more than the $2 million goal.
Gilbert's other projects around campus include the renovation of Popejoy Hall and the Fine Arts Center in 1996, as well as additions and renovations to the Zimmerman Library and the SUB.
"He is one of those alums that makes the school proud as a professional and because he never forgot where he came from," Hurd-Knief said.
In his 30 years of work, Gilbert said he was most proud of the buildings he has designed around campus.
"It has always been important to give back to the school that gave so much to me," Gilbert said.
He said his inspiration derives from the construction site and the buildings close by. His inspiration evolves from the earth, he said, and "all the little things that make life worth living."
Gilbert, who aspired to be an architect at a young age, said his father often dealt with architects and always spoke highly of their ethics. According to his colleagues, Gilbert has succeeded in acquiring this persona.
"First, he is a gentleman," said Roger Schluntz, dean of the School of Architecture and Planning. "He is thoughtful and introspective in his approach, and listens very well. He is a person of absolute solid integrity. Everyone absolutely trusts him."
Steve Borbas, University planner and a colleague of Gilbert's, agreed.
"He is the most kind and honorable gentleman architect that we work with," Borbas said.
In the next few years, Gilbert plans to continue his work on campus by designing a new Centennial Engineering Building, which is set to open in 2006.
Schluntz said the award is given annually to architects who have graduated from UNM and have distinguished themselves through service to the community and the University.
