Learning Resources

Abstract: After decades of significant investment in campus development, US universities are now confronted with enormous challenges, including declining enrollment, evolving academic technology, online learning, and rising facilities maintenance costs. The authors of this research examined how 11 public R1 universities in the Northeast and Midwest are addressing these challenges through a review of campus plans and interviews with senior planners and administrators. This study argues that a new campus planning paradigm is gradually emerging in response to these risks, which highlights innovative strategies for place-based institutions to rapidly reexamine their prevailing capital planning priorities with a focus on adaptability and right-sizing campus facilities.

Abstract: After considering the pandemic’s impacts—in particular, new financial constraints and shifting space expectations—it become clear that Florida State University’s relatively recent master plan needed to be reimagined.

Revising a master plan isn’t usually innovative, but Florida State’s holistic approach is. By engaging the whole institution in the conversation, the master plan reset will ensure that the values and aspirations of the institution are reflected in a built environment that not only meets program needs, but supports and sustains the innovation necessary for post-pandemic realities. The result? A master plan that includes almost no new buildings, rethinks how entire programs work, and drives discipline back into departmental aspirations.

Abstract: Deans, professors, and students all seek high-performance, zero-energy buildings because of their value in elevating recruitment, learning, and living outcomes on campus. Zero-energy buildings are now a reality on today’s shoe-string budgets. To become an advocate for high-performance, zero-energy design and construction, it’s important to understand the initial steps in implementing these projects. Come learn how you can reduce operating costs and bring a zero-energy building to your campus, resulting in a lower carbon footprint and greater health and wellbeing for students.