Learning Resources

Abstract: First generation and marginalized students often have difficulty accessing campus services. Holistically supporting students through integrated services so that they feel valued, respected, and included is critical to graduation and retention rates. The University of Arizona (UA) radically transformed access to student services, bringing together previously disparate services into the co-located Student Success District that renews existing campus assets into accessible, flexible, human-centric spaces. This session will share a model for bridging strategic and facilities planning with universal principles and qualitative and quantitative metrics for leveraging existing programs and building resources to improve student outcomes.

Abstract: Post-pandemic, Simon Fraser University (SFU) developed the Community Vibrancy Playbook to welcome students, staff, and faculty back to campus. We’ll discuss how the campus community can participate in a wide array of initiatives that lead to collaboration, programs, and projects that transform the campus into a welcoming place that prioritizes wellbeing. Positive student experiences are vital and institutions can benefit from including new activities that enrich student life and participation. Come learn how to employ facilitation and listening as tools in project management and embrace adaptability to change, leading to successful outcomes for campus life and the student experience.

Abstract: The growth of the University of Calgary’s Veterinary Medicine program has been a catalyst for several initiatives on campus, including the development of a long range plan, creation of an inclusive program, and development of micro degrees. The process of engagement, programming, and design at Vet Med was critical for understanding the urgent needs of the profession and students while being mindful and respectful of the history of place and the indigenous community. This session show how connecting the history of place at a campus master planning and programming level fosters opportunities, success, health, and wellbeing for each student.

Abstract: In our hybrid environment, it’s more important than ever to pull people away from their devices to build community and connection on campus. Food has the power to bring students and faculty from different backgrounds together and provide a fundamental academic experience. Through campus and workplace examples, we’ll show how food venue design can set a positive tone for interaction and support meaningful connections and wellbeing. Come learn how to plan campus food venues that serve an academic purpose, refine venue goals, and inform venue design through operations to make it more impactful and sustainable.

Abstract:

In order to meet the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education's requirements for an R2 Research Institution designation, Kean University created the University Planning Council (UPC), an inclusive university-wide body with representatives from every constituency within the university community. The UPC creates linkages between assessment and resource allocations to establish integrated university-wide planning, supporting a comprehensive restructuring of its planning processes, policies, and procedures. This session will emphasize the importance of the democratization of data, transparency, inclusivity, and capacity development in integrated planning processes.

Abstract: Higher education campuses have changed very little since the post-industrial era despite the diverse and evolving needs of the modern student. As students seek opportunities for interaction and engagement, institutions have a responsibility to not only provide them with knowledge, but a welcoming environment in which to thrive. This session will explore the diverse experiences of students, faculty, and staff on campus and how they correlate with a sense of wellbeing and belonging. Join us for a workshop that will help you reimagine your own campus's academic environments through empathy, adopting different perspectives, and identifying elements of inclusion and exclusion.

Abstract: Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) and biophilic design principles may often seem at odds, but great ideas for integrating security and wellness for your facilities may come from unexpected sources...as long as you engage users early on in planning and design. Illustrating the latest security, wellness, and biophilic design integration strategies, this session will provide you with essential tools for evaluating both prospective designs and existing conditions on your campus.

Abstract: Working professionals have unique demands on their time, effort, and energy that challenges individual academic pursuit. By engaging working professionals with precise strategies adapted from business, the University of Kansas Edwards Campus (KUEC) has transformed student engagement and increased enrollment 21.5% in two years. Come learn how KUEC is recruiting well-qualified, motivated students by adopting industry sales techniques focused on vetting qualifications and pre-requisites, bridging adviser communications, and reengaging prospects to materialize student outcomes.

Abstract: In April of 2017 the University System of Georgia (USG) launched a system wide initiative, known as the Comprehensive Administrative Review (CAR). The charge was to identify and implement administrative service improvement, efficiencies, and administrative cost savings that can be redirected to student success efforts and core academic programs. As Chair of the CAR Steering Committee, Dr. Marrero will outline the objectives of the CAR, the process, implementation and reporting structures, and the results to date. Furthermore, as a President of two USG comprehensive universities during the process of and initial implementation of CAR (University of West Georgia and Georgia Southern University), Dr. Marrero will provide an institutional perspective and insight into building a culture of high performance with a focus on evidence-based leadership, accountability, and continuous improvement. The session will highlight why investing in and engaging your people is critical in building a culture of continuous improvement.

Abstract: Applying design thinking to strategic and academic plan development can help identify innovative priorities and create a sense of ownership at the individual level, establishing buy-in through the planning process. In this session, we'll explore how a regional comprehensive university incorporated design thinking throughout the development of its strategic and academic plans. Come learn how to employ design thinking to actively engage diverse stakeholders in the planning process, creating alignment and laying the groundwork for an integrated approach to implementation.