Spotlight Series: Regional Perspectives

Campus Space Design for Student Diversity: Results of a Pilot Study on Belonging

Presented by: Brodie Bain, Principal, NAC Architecture | Dustin Saalman, Director, NAC Architecture

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A student’s success and sense of belonging are connected. While campuses invest heavily in diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, gaps still exist. Results from a focus group and visual preference survey reveal the role that space plays in how students of color experience belonging on campus. In this session, we’ll share these findings to demonstrate how spatial attributes can help students feel seen, valued, and connected to their campus community. Join us to uncover insights into campus space design that promotes student success and a sense of belonging.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify different spatial attributes that are connected to a student? A sense of belonging.
2. Articulate how diverse user populations, particularly racial and ethnic minority students, perceive and connect with campus spaces.
3. Reflect on previous projects to look for insights and missed opportunities to promote a sense of belonging for all students.
4. Evaluate current methods for student inclusion in the design process for strategies to promote students’ sense of belonging.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Resolving Inequities; Student Success, Retention, and Graduation
Tags: Diversity Equity and Inclusion; Facilities Design; Student Success

AIA LU/HSW 1.0 Unit (SCUPP25C3519)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Planning for Access, Equity, and Belonging at Buffalo State University

Presented by: Arlita McNamee, Practice Strategy | Planner, Architectural Resources | Peter Murad, Principal, Architectural Resources | Sarah Reid, Facilities Planner, Buffalo State SUNY

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As an urban-engaged university, Buffalo State University’s strategic commitment to diversity, inclusion, and access has strengthened and diversified student recruitment, raised retention rates, and built community within and beyond the campus. Buffalo State’s reputation of providing quality education, access, equity, and engagement requires inclusive, multi-functional spaces that foster a sense of community and develop a welcoming and equity-minded culture for all students. This session will provide actionable design strategies for reimagining existing campus spaces as learning environments that can build community, foster a sense of belonging, and drive student success.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate how integrating academic advising, tutoring, and accessibility services into libraries and existing facilities can foster a comprehensive support system for student success and wellbeing.
2. Detail a strategic planning process that prioritizes accessibility, builds community within and beyond campus, and fosters belonging and wellbeing for all.
3. Show how actionable and scalable design strategies improve student learning environments, ensuring adaptability for diverse student needs.
4. Discuss design strategies for inclusive, multi-functional campus spaces that enhance student engagement and wellbeing and contribute to improved retention and graduation rates.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Student Success, Retention, and Graduation
Tags: Accessibility; Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI); Facilities Design; Facilities Planning; Student Services; Student Success

AIA LU/HSW 1.0 Unit (SCUPN25C3381)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Right-size the Solution to Decarbonizing Your Campus

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

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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

Campus Planning for a Sustainable, All-electric, and Decarbonized Future

Presented by: Phil Boutelle, Decarbonization Infrastructure Program Manager, University of California-Santa Cruz | Alyse Falconer, Managing Principal, Point Energy Innovations | Sally McGarrahan, Program Manager, University of California-Berkeley | Matthew St. Clair, Chief Sustainability Officer, University of California Office of the President

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Buildings contribute over a third of global carbon emissions and are a key focus for decarbonization. As legislation phases out natural gas and enforces stricter efficiencies, campuses must adapt to the demands of all-electric building design. In this session, experts from the University of California (UC) will cover strategies, insights, and costs of decarbonization with the goal of building a more sustainable and healthy future. Join us to gain effective, practical tools and project strategies for campus decarbonization as well as discover how electrification impacts utilities and requires cross-disciplinary teamwork.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Advocate for and make the case, both in reason and feasibility, for healthier, all-electric, and decarbonized new-build facilities and retrofits.
2. Discuss strategies for campus decarbonization and electrification in order to increase energy efficiency, reduce subsequent operating costs, and ultimately decrease carbon emissions for a healthier environment.
3. Gain tools to fully participate in cross-disciplinary teamwork among architects, planners, consultants, and real estate executives to effectively implement decarbonization strategies.
4. Discuss the importance of using tools such as decarbonization roadmaps, reviewing carbon reduction measures, and participating in life cycle cost analysis to effectively plan decarbonization projects.

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

AIA LU/HSW 1.0 Unit (SCUPP25C3398)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Achieving Net-zero Emissions With No Capital and No Debt

Presented by: Matt Milovick, Vice-President, Thompson Rivers University | Samson Tam, Director of Development, Creative Energy

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The reduction of campus carbon emissions requires large investments in infrastructure, which is challenged by the realities of budgetary pressures. However, climate action doesn’t have to come at the expense of an institution’s core mission. Thompson Rivers University is transforming their campus infrastructure for net-zero emissions and a healthier environment without expending capital or taking on debt. This session will cover a novel procurement model along with a pathway to net-zero emissions that you can replicate on your own campus, providing you with the tools you need to take climate action now.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Determine whether the utility model for procurement can open the door for lowering or eliminating your campus’s carbon emissions for a healthier environment.
2. Compare your campus against the benchmark of Thompson Rivers University in regards to project costs and overall campus greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Review your campus infrastructure for compatibility with low-carbon district energy systems.
4. Apply a new tool for updating your campus plan for decarbonization, resulting in a healthier and safer campus.

Planning Types: Sustainability Planning
Challenges: Dealing with Climate Change
Tags: Energy Infrastructure; Facilities Funding; Sustainability (Environmental); Zero Net Energy (ZNE)

AIA LU/HSW 1.0 Unit (SCUPP25C3310)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Designing for Intentional Community: Dartmouth’s Housing Transformation

Presented by: Ben Carlson, Principal, Goody Clancy | Lisa Ferreira, Principal, Student Life Practice Leader, Goody Clancy | Joanna Whitcomb, Director of Campus Planning, Dartmouth College

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Planning processes must be versatile and nimble to accommodate changing priorities. This session will show how a design team developed a flexible data visualization tool that allows Dartmouth University to play out scenarios as priorities change over time. As Dartmouth renews its plans, we’ll provide a comprehensive look at how the team considered parity, distribution, and student wellness in a three-part planning effort. Discover how you can apply our data visualization tool to describe complex variables to stakeholders, as well as use scenario planning to align cost, student experience, and institutional goals over the course of your plan’s realization.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Respond to student wellness goals, community goals, and growth needs in your housing project plans.
2. Use a critical eye to assess how buildings support or do not support your institution’s culture.
3. Explain how to develop a similar data visualization tool to use for your own institution’s purposes.
4. Advocate for flexibility in your plans in anticipation of leadership changes during its execution.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Engaging Stakeholders
Tags: Facilities Assessment; Facilities Design; Facilities Planning; Scenario Planning; Student Housing

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPN25C3406)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Reimagining the Student Experience and Stewarding Campus Resources

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

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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

Designing a Flexible and Resilient Research Building Through Integrated Planning

Presented by: Geoff Bock, Director of Operations, N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Charles Mummert, Design Principal, Flad Architects | Bob Sherman, Principal/Project Manager, Affiliated Engineers, Inc.

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This session will highlight how a collaborative team promoted innovation to enable decision making throughout the Plant Sciences Initiative design process at North Carolina State University (NCSU). Built pre-pandemic, this future-proofed building continues to successfully serve as an energizing hub for innovation. NCSU’s integrated planning and data-driven process for designing a flexible academic research building has inspired cross-functional collaboration, leading to increased industry partnerships and innovations. Come learn how leveraging benchmarking, analytics, and an integrated planning process can produce a successfully designed, forward-thinking research building.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Outline a stakeholder engagement and integrated planning process that supports innovations in program development.
2. Identify ‘stretch goals’ for building performance and resiliency to inform future capital projects.
3. Use creativity in your integrated planning process to maximize flexibility and resiliency with building systems.
4. Use benchmarking, data, and pre- and post-occupancy evaluations to make informed decisions about space allocation and design.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Engaging Stakeholders
Tags: Benchmarking; Engaging Stakeholders; Facilities Assessment; Facilities Design; Innovation; Post-Occupancy Evaluation; Resiliency; Science / Engineering Facility

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPS24C3174)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

At the Edge: Connecting Campus and Community Through Transformative Reuse

Presented by: Joe Banks, Director of Construction, Wesleyan University | Tom Davies, Executive Director of Planning, Design and Construction, Amherst College | Jason Forney, Principal, Bruner/Cott Architects

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Every campus has underused edges it can leverage as important connections to community within and beyond its boundaries Transformative reuse provides an opportunity to deploy new programs, restore important historic structures, and foster community in different ways. In this session, we’ll discuss how Wesleyan University and Amherst College invested in an underused, historic campus-edge buildings to develop a nexus for creative community, a student run hub, and a think tank for the humanities. You will discover parallels and ways of employing similar strategies to create meaningful connections between the campus and community. Furthermore, we’ll demonstrate how the reuse of existing buildings offers design inspiration while avoiding the embodied carbon of building new.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Find inspiration to take a second look at existing and possibly-underused buildings on the edges of campus to imagine new possibilities for on and off-campus communities.
2. Seek opportunities to create high-quality learning environments that can foster community engagement and develop into new campus districts for all.
3. Discuss how pushing the boundaries of what is physically possible with old campus buildings and their place on campus can result in great success for administration, donor support, community collaboration, and student success.
4. Explain how reusing old buildings can support campus sustainability goals and avoid the use of embodied carbon.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Adaptive Reuse; Community Engagement; Renovation; Sustainability (Environmental)

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPN25C3327)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit

Revitalizing the Workplace

Presented by: Lisa Keith, Principal, Director of Analytics | Page

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Office space makes up about a third of all non-residential space on campuses. Post-COVID, many institutional offices struggle with providing enough office space while simultaneously creating a sense of workplace vibrancy due to the rise in remote and hybrid employees. Promoting change in higher education is tough—is it possible to fulfill the needs of all institutional offices through one style of workplace or is it necessary to consider unique needs of offices and individual employees? Join us to explore two institutional workplace case studies and apply the lessons learned on your campus.

Learning Outcomes:

• 1. Identify the primary design factors that help foster a successful work environment.
  2. Create workplace principles and environments that foster inclusivity and equity for all employees.
  3. Develop design solutions that craft a variety of work environments to meet diverse needs.
  4. Consider differentiators between workplace environments for academic intensive research, academic non-intensive research, and administrative units.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Tags: Space Management; Facilities Design; Facilities Planning; Faculty

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPSS25W1)
AICP Pending

Architecture + Education Raises Awareness and Supports Community Collaboration

Presented by: Kailey Elhaddad, Senior Architect, Buffalo Public Schools | Luke Johnson, Design Leader, CannonDesign | Beth Tauke, Associate Professor, University at Buffalo | Cheri Weatherston, Architect, CannonDesign

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Recordings are available to registrants only.

Community collaboration hasn’t always been a priority in design education. This session will showcase a program that leverages the public school system as a learning environment for professionals and graduate students in architecture to identify socioeconomic opportunities. The Architecture + Education Program provides institutions opportunities to work actively with the communities they serve, and raises awareness of design careers among public school kids to increase and diversify its talent pipeline. This unique program involves multiple generations, including design professionals alongside public school and university students and instructors. Join us to discover opportunities for innovative community programs in your own backyard.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Describe how to replicate similar approaches and programs in your city to increase community collaboration and support a talent pipeline.
2. Discover through personal stories how public school diversity fosters awareness of the built environment and works towards diversifying the architecture and design fields for future generations.
3. Share how the collaboration of design professionals, graduate students, and public school teachers can transform traditional teaching into active learning methods.
4. Identify potential partners and leaders in your community when considering cross-generational engagement models.

Planning Types: Campus Planning
Challenges: Resolving Inequities
Tags: Active Learning; Community Engagement; Facilities Design; Graduate Degree Program; Innovation; K-12; Workforce Development

AIA LU 1.0 Unit (SCUPN25C3320)
AICP CM 1.0 Unit