Mid-Atlantic 2025 Regional Conference

Thomas 100 Lobby | Thomas Building

Discussion With The Deans

Thomas 100 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Clarence Lang, Susan Welch Dean of the College of the Liberal Arts, Pennsylvania State University | Tonya Peeples, Harold And Inge Marcus Dean of Engineering, Professor of Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University

Thank you to our sponsor!

Join us for the Opening Reception at the Palmer Art Museum
Enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the museum on Monday evening, reserved just for our group. So, come hang out, enjoy some great art, and grab a drink and hors d’oeuvres while you catch up with fellow attendees.

Ballroom | Nittany Lion Inn

Start your day with breakfast and coffee at the Nittany Lion Inn Ballroom before heading to the Thomas Building for the concurrent sessions at 9 a.m.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Thomas 100 Lobby | Thomas Building

Interdisciplinary Planning in Action: Technology, Business, and the Arts

CBEB 001 | Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Building

Presented by: Lesleigh Cushing, Colgate University | George de Brigard, Associate Partner, Robert A.M. Stern Architects | Jeffrey Earley, Vice Provost for Academic Resource Management, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Kasey Tilove, Associate Partner, Robert A.M. Stern Architects

Technology’s ever-growing impact on learning is such that combining disciplines, even traditionally segregated ones, in new campus buildings is a necessity. Through facilities case studies at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) and Colgate University, this session will illustrate how careful stakeholder coordination is a vital part of planning facilities that co-locate faculty and programs from distinct colleges. Come learn how the physical co-location of academic departments can help universities better prepare students for interdisciplinary futures, offering students well-rounded learning experiences to carry them forward into their careers.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Discuss methods for designing and constructing campus buildings that facilitate interaction and collaboration between multiple academic disciplines.
2. Detail the organizational process for achieving interdisciplinary stakeholder engagement for high-priority initiatives.
3. Determine a balance between the implementation of framework plan priorities and program must-haves at the departmental level.
4. Gain strategies that will help you develop coherent interdisciplinary university districts using both new and existing facilities.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Engaging Stakeholders
Tags: Engaging Stakeholders; Facilities Planning; Interdisciplinary; Interdisciplinary Learning Environments; Learning Technology

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3423)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Is a Public-Private Partnership Right for Your Innovation Mission?

Thomas 104 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Ben Carlson, Principal, Goody Clancy | Alan Greenberger, VP Real Estate & Facilities, Drexel University | Thomas Osha, Executive Vice President and Principal, Wexford Science + Technology

Productive innovation communities need versatile, well-located facilities to support a dynamic culture that spans institution, industry, and region. Institutions are vital anchors for developing innovation districts while their partners can provide timely connections and infrastructure. Our panel will demonstrate how developer partnerships can provide the right space, internships, culture, and support for necessary change. An integrated planning approach that extends beyond the campus helps turn barriers into mutual wins for higher education institutions and their communities. This session will show how smart partnerships can solve issues from space constraints and workforce access to placemaking and resilience.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Recognize what makes financial sense for your institution and your partner when negotiating for development.
2. Find opportunities in your region to connect students with employers and researchers with industry by engaging in partnerships.
3. Discuss how to deepen the collaborations and connections in your innovation culture by working with experienced programming partners.
4. Explain how to attract private investment in economic development in your campus to better serve students, researchers, and the community.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Economic Development; External Collaboration / Partnerships; Facilities Funding; Innovation; Innovation Center; Placemaking; Public-Private Partnerships (P3); Town and Gown; Workforce Development

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3511)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Reimagining the Student Experience and Stewarding Campus Resources

Thomas 101 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Cory Clippinger, Architect, DLR Group | Matthew Damschroder, Vice President for Student life and Dean of Students, Juniata College | Lisa Keegan, Vice President for Student Enrollment, Engagement, and Success, Bucknell University | Kaveri Singh, Higher Education Leader, DLR Group

Institutions are seeking to improve student experience to support recruitment and retention on campus, but making big impactful moves can be daunting in the midst of overwhelming deferred maintenance needs. Solving for a renewed focus on student wellbeing and resource-strapped environments, we’ll share two case studies of transforming the campus experience through strategic investment in capital-constrained environments. This session will outline a path for converting the threats of deferred maintenance numbers into an opportunity to enhance the student experience on campus by providing a tool kit to guide institutions through the planning process.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Discuss how to build consensus and buy-in through meaningful campus engagement and a workshop-driven approach.
2. Detail the meaningful ways in which strategic spending in a capital-constrained environment can help transform your campus into an environment that supports student experience and wellbeing.
3. Recognize and take advantage of strategic opportunities for phasing and prioritizing deferred maintenance spending to maximize the value of student-oriented programs.
4. Find opportunities for the design of new spaces and renovation of existing spaces and programs to enhance wellbeing and mental health for campus communities.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Student Success, Retention, and Graduation
Tags: Deferred Maintenance; Facilities Planning; Health and Wellness; Student Experience; Student Recruitment; Student Retention

AIA LU/HSW 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3466)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Revitalizing Mid-20th-century Campus Buildings for 21st-century Science

Thomas 102 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Luis Carrazana, Senior Facility Planner and Architect, University of Virginia-Main Campus | Paul Harney, Managing Principal, Perkins&Will | Anna Towns, Director Space Management, University of Virginia-Main Campus | Jesse Warren, Associate Director of Sustainability, University of Virginia-Main Campus

Many institutions have legacy STEM facilities that no longer support their teaching, research, and sustainability goals. The University of Virginia’s (UVA) Gilmer Hall and Chemistry Building project provides valuable insight into planning and operating a major renovation for STEM disciplines. This project has strategically repositioned UVA’s main science buildings for better outcomes in teaching, research, and high-performance sustainability. Come learn how to balance cost, function, aesthetics, and sustainability in developing the most effective planning and design solutions for major STEM renovations, as well as actively manage these facilities to fully leverage their new capabilities.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Evaluate new construction versus renovation with greater insight into finding the hidden value in legacy buildings, especially for STEM-driven programs.
2. Identify new opportunities in old buildings for experiential learning to maximize the potential for better learning outcomes in STEM renovation teaching spaces.
3. Leverage the best aspects of an original building’s planning and infrastructure to provide agile research environments and improve recruitment and retention.
4. Discuss how to actively manage the completed project to extract the most value for the investment, particularly with regard to maximizing the potential energy savings.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Renovation; Revitalization; Science / Engineering Facility; Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM); Sustainability (Environmental)

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3513)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

From Planning to Implementation: JHU’s Climate Action and Sustainability Plan

Thomas 102 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Agathe Pierot, Sustainability Manager, Climate Action, Johns Hopkins University | David Righter, Climate Action Planner, Introba

As many colleges and universities undertake climate and sustainability planning efforts, they often encounter challenges around gaining buy-in from stakeholders and moving from planning to implementation. This session will highlight how broad stakeholder engagement helped position Johns Hopkins University (JHU) to take bold action on climate change through its recently released Climate Action and Sustainability Plan. We’ll offer guidance for stakeholder engagement, including stakeholder mapping and governance, as a key factor in climate planning and successful plan implementation.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Set ambitious but achievable climate and sustainability goals for a healthier environment through integrated planning and robust analysis.
2. Request input from your campus community and discuss strategies for securing buy-in from leadership while laying the groundwork for your plan’s implementation.
3. Discuss actions you can take before and after releasing your plan by capitalizing on the momentum you build through the planning phase.
4. Apply lessons learned from JHU’s Climate Action and Sustainability Plan to other campus planning efforts at your institution to achieve goals towards a safer and healthier climate.

Planning Types: Campus Planning; Sustainability Planning
Challenges: Dealing with Climate Change; Engaging Stakeholders
Tags: Engaging Stakeholders; Implementation; Sustainability (Environmental)

AIA LU/HSW 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3457)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Marshall University Plans a Dynamic Innovation District for Expansive Impact

Thomas 104 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Foroozan MohtashemiPour, VP of Innovation District Strategies & Development, Fairmount Properties | H. Toney Stroud, Chief Legal Officer, Marshall University | Mauricio Ulloa, Senior Associate, Perkins Eastman.

Marshall University is planning a transformative, off-campus district to spur university and state-wide innovation with its new School of Business, Advanced Manufacturing Center, and Institute for Cyber Security. This Innovation District builds on Marshall’s strengths to drive a comprehensive economic development strategy, integrating academic, government, and private sector programs to create lasting impact. This session will demonstrate how universities can play a pivotal role in regional development, economic advancement, and talent retention. Come discover how your institution can capitalize on emerging trends and prepare for change through integrated planning and collaboration.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Advocate for leveraging strategic planning to drive regional development and create impactful change.
2. Proactively pursue vital private sector partnerships to accelerate campus development priorities and foster mutual growth.
3. Discuss how to capitalize on innovation drivers, recognizing opportunities for collaborative regional and institutional advancement.
4. Describe the academic program and community benefits of transforming the urban campus edge into a dynamic mixed-use district.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Economic Development; Innovation; Innovation Center

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3500)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Old Tower, New Tricks: Solving Spatial Challenges for Growing Programs

CBEB 001 | Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Building

Presented by: Nicole DeFazio, Interior Designer, DesignGroup | Nicola Foote, Dean, Honors College, Professor, University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus | Lauren McConnell, Planner, University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus | John Ryan, Associate Principal, DesignGroup

Solving spatial challenges to enhance meaningful, growing programs is critical for any school. Enrollment in the University of Pittsburgh’s (Pitt) Honors College, located in the iconic Cathedral of Learning, has expanded from 200 to over 3,000 students. We’ll delve into the issue of how to use the college’s 10,000 square feet of space across five levels of the neogothic skyscraper in a way that best serves students. This case study will provide you with an opportunity to analyze an existing historic building and new program for student services, and discover how to develop an identity that serves and enhances both.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Apply a variety of lenses for evaluating programming needs to define priority space use.
2. Evaluate historic buildings for constraints and opportunities to define a new future identity.
3. Share new tools and methods for information gathering and engage in visual listening exercises for developing a unified spatial and aesthetic vision.
4. Explain how to accentuate limited space for student use while balancing and providing adequate support space for faculty and staff.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Facilities Planning; Historic Preservation; Space Management; Student Services

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3342)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

The Benefits of Designing for Neuro-inclusion on Campus

Thomas 101 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Severino Alfonso, Assistant Professor of Interior Design, Thomas Jefferson University | Jeff DeGregorio, Principal, Board of Directors, Payette | Wendy Ross,
Director, Center for Autism and Neurodiversity, Jefferson College of Health Sciences | Ellie Thomas, Designer, Payette | Loukia Tsafoulia, Assistant Professor of Architecture, Thomas Jefferson University

Accessible design for the future campus must expand to meet a greater set of needs for the wellbeing of neurodiverse individuals. Autism can profoundly impact an individual’s ability to tolerate and thrive in a physical space. In this session, a diverse panel of experts will present case studies and survey tools for methodologies that center neurodivergence in campus planning and design. We’ll equip you to advocate for neuro-inclusive design strategies that empower neurodivergent individuals to academically engage and succeed on your campus.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify aspects of autism that that you must consider in inclusive, accessible, and safe campus design.
2. Delineate, advocate, and express the benefits for the collaboration of multiple disciplines and populations in campus design.
3. Articulate specific wellbeing and accessible learning design strategies, such as survey tools, lived experiences, and inclusive design processes, for an architectural and pedagogical toolbox.
4. Challenge standard language and recognize biases behind a neuro-inclusive design process to create accessible learning environments that support wellbeing.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Student Success, Retention, and Graduation
Tags: Accessibility; Facilities Design; Student Success

AIA LU/HSW 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3402)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Collaborative Town and Gown Solutions for Pedestrian Safety on Campus

Thomas 101 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Jeffrey Eastman, University Planner, Virginia Commonwealth University | Grady Hart, Student and Research Assistant, Virginia Commonwealth University | Jack Iffert, Transportation Engineer, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. | Omar Kanaan, Transportation Engineer, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.

Nationwide rising crashes involving pedestrians impact the safety of your campus community. This session will cover applicable and scalable strategies Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is using to create a safer campus for pedestrians while exploring the unique challenges of pedestrian and driver safety on urban university and medical campuses. We’ll share best practices from peers, a data-driven approach for cost-effective solutions, and a town and gown collaboration framework to help foster a culture of safety. Join us to begin developing a list of pedestrian safety measures and identify the necessary stakeholders for implementing these safety measures.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify comparable peer institutions from a transportation safety context.
2. Discuss a plan for cost-effective, implementable, and innovative measures for transportation safety on campus.
3. Foster open communications and proactive dialogue between university and municipal leadership to advance safety measures.
4. Find opportunities to educate students on campus safety and identify creative ways to engage the campus community in efforts to promote pedestrian and bicycle safety.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Town and Gown; Transportation and Parking

AIA LU/HSW 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3372)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Educational Programs and Community Partnerships for Skilled Trades Pathways

Thomas 102 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Ryan Hausmann, Associate, Whitman, Requardt and Associates, LLP | Jack Nye, Vice President, Whitman, Requardt and Associates, LLP | Daria Willis, President, Howard Community College

Skilled trades education programs provide a viable and equitable option for students who choose not to pursue a four-year degree. Program expansion into high schools through career and technical education promotes these pathways even further for completion and success. This session will show how Howard Community College (HCC) is responding to labor shortages in skilled trades occupations by creating educational programs and partnerships to provide additional access to high-quality jobs that offer family-sustaining wages and benefits. Join us to discover new approaches to education and partnerships that address equity gaps in economic and professional opportunities in our communities.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify educational pathways to address equity and opportunity gaps via skilled trades programs.
2. Identify and cultivate community partners who can participate in the planning of skilled trades education programs and on-the-job training opportunities.
3. Describe a project financing strategy that leverages public and private sources.
4. Discuss the process of delivering sufficient facilities to meet enrollment demand in career and technical education programs and prepare students for in-demand skilled trades jobs.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Community College; Economic Development; External Collaboration / Partnerships; Facilities Planning; Workforce Development

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3383)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

How Princeton University’s Historic Tudor Revival Crossed the Road

Thomas 104 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Richard Gallagher, Architect, Metcalfe Architecture and Design | Mark Kinn-Gurzo, Project Manager, Princeton University | Ron McCoy, University Architect, Princeton University | Alan Metcalfe, Founding Partner, Metcalfe Architecture and Design

When Princeton University completed its campus plan, it identified the location of a historic Tudor Revival building as an area for growth. As a solution, Princeton developed a plan that would maintain the street’s character by relocating the historic building. This process represents a challenge that most institutions face in urban or residential settings where the character of institutional buildings becomes a part of the broader community’s identity. Through Princeton’s story and process you’ll discover how multiple parties came together for meticulous planning, logistics, and engineering that made the move possible and gave way to the next generation of development.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Consider potential campus planning solutions that weave together the interests of neighboring residents with the needs of the university to serve future students and strengthen community relationships.
2. Describe the process of rotating a 7,000-square-foot building 180 degrees and relocating it across the street, including digital modeling tools to streamline coordination.
3. Create a list of the numerous university and community stakeholders for such a project, as well as municipal and local utilities for logistical hurdles on the ground.
4. Identify the challenges of maintaining the character of historic institutional buildings that have become a part of the identity and heritage of the broader community.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Engaging Stakeholders
Tags: Engaging Stakeholders; Historic Preservation; Town and Gown

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3412)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

The Super-flex Lab: A Collaborative Process for Programming and Design

CBEB 001 | Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Building

Presented by: Ruth Johnson, Associate Professor of Biology, Wesleyan University | Abigail Klima, Senior Associate, Payette

Wesleyan University’s super-flex lab module is a ‘one-size-fits-most’ wet lab design that maximizes long-term flexibility and function. This session will outline a user-informed programming and design process that resulted in an innovative and forward-looking lab design that supports faculty stakeholders’ needs and concerns. From the perspectives of the lab planner and a research faculty member, we’ll explore the collaborative process that forged a partnership with the faculty while developing a dynamic and innovative lab design.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Enhance your ability to structure a planning and design process that integrates productive faculty feedback into the work plan.
2. Gain a series of tools to facilitate hands-on faculty workshops that deepen project knowledge and enhance stakeholder engagement.
3. Consider challenges in the user engagement process and gain tools to help you move through them.
4. Engage with peers to share your experience on effective interactive workshop models.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Engaging Stakeholders
Tags: Engaging Stakeholders; Facilities Design; Laboratory Facility

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3431)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Heritage Hall | HUB-Robeson Center

Lunch will take place at the Hetzel Union Building-Robeson Center in Heritage Hall, just a short 4-minute walk from the Thomas Building. Afterward, return to the Thomas Building for the afternoon keynote presentation and sessions.

Thank you to our sponsor!

The Power of Data: Planning & Strategizing Confidently

Thomas 100 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Jeremy Bean, Assistant Vice President for Enterprise Change & Transformation, Pennsylvania State University | Renata Engel, Vice Provost for Online Education, Pennsylvania State University | Matt Melvin, Vice President for Enrollment Management, Pennsylvania State University | Peter Moran, Associate Dean for Policy and Planning, Office of Planning and Institutional Research (OPIR), Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona | Michael Rosenberg, Senior Policy Analyst, Pennsylvania State University | Carly Sunseri, Senior Director of Data Science and Analytics, Office of Planning, Assessment, and Institutional Research (OPAIR), Pennsylvania State University

Thank you to our sponsor!

Finding New Life and Purpose for Existing Campus Edge Buildings

CBEB 001 | Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Building

Presented by: Matt Plecity, Principal, GBBN Architects | Steven Watson, Director, Planning, Design and Properties, Pennsylvania State University

Universities face pressure to provide world-class facilities on limited budgets. This session will demonstrate how strategic partnerships led to the successful repurposing of two legacy buildings on two Pennsylvania (Penn) State University campuses. Aligning the right building program with donor interest can shape fiscally and environmentally-responsible decision making that responds to campus stakeholders and the surrounding community. Come discover how generating donor interest, leveraging relationships, and deploying strategic campus planning can infuse new life and purpose into underutilized buildings at the edge of campus.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify potential strategic partnerships with campus stakeholders, donors, and outside parties to support the reinvention and increased use of underused campus spaces.
2. Identify opportunities for the creative reuse of existing campus spaces.
3. Advocate for and promote off-hour, revenue-generating use of repurposed spaces.
4. Employ planning strategies to program more dynamic, inclusive campus spaces.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Engaging Stakeholders
Tags: Adaptive Reuse; Engaging Stakeholders; External Collaboration / Partnerships; Facilities Planning; Town and Gown

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3364)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Reimagining Science and Engineering Programs through the Living Masterplan

Thomas 104 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Jeffrey Harper, Senior Project Design Architect, HDR, Inc. | Leila Kamal, Director of Education, HDR, Inc. | Zachary Stevenson, Senior Director of Planning, Design and Construction at Penn Engineering, University of Pennsylvania

Science and engineering programs continue to grow and attract funding. Strategic planning can maximize new and repurposed space for STEM programs to address aging infrastructure, changing research, evolving student needs, and an uncertain future. To build stakeholder consensus and develop an achievable plan, we’ll define key metrics behind the best use of existing space and showcase how specific data-driven tools and analytics transform traditional planning into a living masterplan. By applying a living masterplan and embracing data-driven tools, you’ll be able to reach stakeholder consensus sooner and develop more efficient plans that are both implementable and adaptable to future changes.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Describe a sound foundation for an effective and collaborative planning process that sets clear expectations, defines work processes, establishes data requirements, and spells out the various levels of required engagement and input.
2. Define the key metrics for accurately measuring current spaces, the best and highest use of existing and new spaces, and the types of data-driven inputs that support the strategic program growth.
3. State the benefits and potential challenges of using computational tools and living master planning methods to quantify key qualitative data.
4. Identify the unique contextual factors that affect how the planning process for STEM facilities incorporates overall campus and university goals.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Campus Master Planning; Facilities Planning; Master Plan; Science / Engineering Facility; Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM)

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3476)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Revitalizing Historic Campus Libraries for Contemporary Learning

Thomas 102 | Thomas Building

Presented by: David Bagnoli, Principal, StudioMB Architects | Ryan Jordan, Architect, Johns Hopkins University | Kit Meyer, Project Director, University of Virginia-Main Campus | Chuck Rogers, Director of Design and Construction, University of Richmond

Universities must update their historic facilities to meet new demands and missions. From phasing strategies to space transformation decisions, this panel will examine three universities’ approaches to transforming libraries into interactive hubs that facilitate connectivity and contemporary learning while solidifying the role of books within academia. Come learn how revitalized libraries can maintain their historical and traditional character, but make key updates that activate student learning, adapt to educational trends, and expand their role on campus.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Analyze varying phasing strategies as well as the benefits and challenges of designing in both occupied and shut-down spaces.
2. Consider ways of preserving the historic role of the library, expanding research and study capabilities, and diversifying methods of learning, particularly within the humanities.
3. Strategize ways to modernize libraries into central campus hubs that integrate formal and informal learning alongside community connectivity.
4. Detail strategies for capitalizing on underutilized and inaccessible spaces within the library as well as on campus

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Informal Learning Environments; Library; Library Planning; Renovation

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3433)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Right-size the Solution to Decarbonizing Your Campus

Thomas 101 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Casey Ross, Director of Energy Services, Lorax Partnerships | Casey Smith, Principal, Hord Coplan Macht, Inc. (HCM) | Meredith Sullivan, Director of Project Management, Loyola University Maryland

Decarbonization is a looming challenge for every campus and a monumental effort that requires immediate, practical actions to preserve environmental health. This session will delve into regional and national goals for decarbonization as well as share dos and don’ts from active decarbonization projects. We’ll offer strategies for both new build and renovation projects and discuss various funding programs to help you get the most sound financial investment. Join us to begin right-sizing your campus’s decarbonization solution and discover how to meet Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS).

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify common pitfalls and successful strategies for decarbonizing new and existing buildings for the purpose of creating a healthy campus environment.
2. Apply practical lessons to your decarbonization planning efforts for environmental health across an integrated campus of buildings.
3. Prepare for potential legal requirements and financial penalties in local jurisdictions related to BEPS programs, which are instituted for healthy climate and energy goals.
4. Take advantage of local and federal incentives to help offset the costs of a building decarbonization project on your campus.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Dealing with Climate Change
Tags: Energy Efficiency and Conservation; Energy Infrastructure; Sustainability (Environmental)

AIA LU/HSW 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3347)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

A Unique University Initiative for Adolescent Behavioral Healthcare

Thomas 102 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Marlene Borruso, Associate | Director of Sustainability & Wellness, USA Architects | Susan DeHart, Associate Principal | Senior Project Architect, USA Architects | Frank Ghinassi, President and CEO, Rutgers University-New Brunswick | Dave Schulz, Vice President and University Architect, Rutgers University

The Brandt Behavioral Health Treatment Center and Retreat of Rutgers University is the first of its kind. As a unique response to adolescent behavioral health challenges, Rutgers is developing a new clinical and research program along with a two-building on-campus residential and outpatient facility. Mental health challenges are rising among young people, and these issues require inventive and accessible solutions. This session will demonstrate how sustainable, biophilic building design can support an innovative, integrated approach to the mental health treatment of adolescents and young adults.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Discuss the rising need for focused behavioral healthcare for adolescents and young adults and provide an example of how campus facilities can support this need.
2. Describe an innovative approach that institutions can use to respond to this mental health crisis through integrated academic, research, training, and care programs.
3. Identify interior design and architectural methods that can provide a sense of dignity, respect, and wellbeing at mental health treatment facilities.
4. Leverage the built environment as a core component of mental health treatment.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Facilities Design; Facilities Planning; Health and Wellness; Medical / Allied Health Facility

AIA LU/HSW 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3360)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Delivering a Renovated Learning Commons for an Engaged Academic Community

Thomas 101 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Justine Black, Director of the Statton Learning Commons, Juniata College | Lauren Bowen, Provost, Juniata College | Paul Lund, Principal, Hord Coplan Macht, Inc. (HCM)

Integrated planning is essential for delivering campus facilities that support institutional vision and create a strong student academic experience. Juniata College was at a crossroads related to vision and curriculum direction while it was launching a comprehensive campaign that prioritized a library renovation. This session will focus on one provost’s vision for planning and designing a learning commons around a new curriculum and share post-occupancy data to define what worked. Come learn how the planning, funding, and design process behind this inclusive facility has dramatically increased library use by students, faculty, and outside groups.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Use student academic outcomes as a driver in your planning and design process for campus facilities.
2. Identify methods for creating an inclusive and integrated facilities planning process.
3. Discuss how to develop a holistic financial plan to fund your institutional vision for a campus learning commons.
4. Detail a post-construction process for maintaining flexibility in the built environment.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Funding; Informal Learning Environments; Learning Commons; Library; Library Planning; Post-Occupancy Evaluation; Renovation

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3361)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Princeton University PLACES: An Inclusive Performance Evaluation Framework

Thomas 104 | Thomas Building

Presented by: Flavia Grey Rodriguez, Senior Data Strategist, ZGF Architects LLP | Ron McCoy, University Architect, Princeton University | Benjamin Petrick, Assistant University Architect, Princeton University

Princeton University’s People, Learning, Access, Culture, Environment, Sustainability (PLACES) framework guides the evaluation of completed projects to improve future designs. It can adapt to any facility type and expands beyond traditional building performance evaluation by applying behavioral and building science along with sense of belonging research. This session will share how PLACES evaluated five campus buildings to identify drivers and barriers impacting occupant experience, behaviors, and building sustainability performance. Come learn how to adapt and implement an evaluation process for critically examining your campus spaces in alignment with institutional and project-specific goals, as well as share actionable insights.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Define evaluation objectives in alignment with institutional and project-specific goals.
2. Identify key stakeholders and space types for each evaluation objective to guide data collection.
3. Detail diverse data collection methodologies for engaging your campus community.
4. Establish methods for concise and actionable sharing of evaluation findings.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Data; Facilities Assessment; Post-Occupancy Evaluation

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3493)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Reimagining Campus Spaces for Student Success and Workforce Readiness

CBEB 001 | Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Building

Presented by: David Mayhew, University Architect, Towson University | Bob Mohr, Principal, Shepley Bulfinch | Tara Spagnoletti, Associate Director of Planning, Lehigh University | Amanda Vigneau, Director, Shepley Bulfinch

Now more than ever, institutions must apply a comprehensive approach to student success that focuses on personal development, academics, and community. This session will explore two projects—Lehigh University’s Clayton University Center and Towson University’s Smith Hall—through the lens of balancing spatial programs that support both student personal development and workforce readiness. We’ll teach you best practices from both Lehigh and Towson to renew and optimize campus spaces, invest in facilities to align with institutional goals, and create campus environments that balance personal growth, community bonds, and academic exploration.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify strategies for the creation of campus environments that balance personal development, community connection, and academic exploration.
2. Evaluate the ways in which strategic investments in campus buildings can support both student growth and evolving educational and technological demands.
3. Apply best practices that can help you to renew your campus facilities and align them with their respective institutional strategies.
4. Discuss how to program and plan campus spaces that foster students’ interpersonal skills, academic rigor, and innovation.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Facilities Planning; Space Management; Student Success; Workforce Development

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPM25C3462)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Ballroom | Nittany Lion Inn

Start your day with breakfast and coffee at the Nittany Lion Inn Ballroom before heading to the Thomas Building for the keynote presentation at 9 a.m.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Leading and Living Through Change

Presented by: Jeremy Bean, Assistant Vice President for Enterprise Change & Transformation, Pennsylvania State University