Learning Resources

Abstract: “In 2013 TRU established ‘increasing sustainability’ as one of its five strategic priorities for 2014-2019. This Strategic Sustainability Plan (SSP) is aligned with the university’s strategic plan, and provides a focus for TRU’s efforts toward sustainability over the same period. The SSP is comprehensive in nature, and includes more than 130 recommended strategies across four key focus areas: Operations & Planning, Advocacy & Engagement, Learning, and Administration. The SSP is intended to provide a framework for each TRU department and operational unit to incorporate sustainability initiatives into their own planning processes (the structure of the plan is illustrated on the opposing page). . . . Unlike some strategic documents, the plan takes a comprehensive approach of documenting strategies over the next 5 years. These strategies are not all the responsibility of one department or office, but rather are shared among many. This comprehensive approach will allow each office or department to see where and how it can play a role in TRU’s sustainability journey.”

Abstract: Space is not neutral; we perceive physical environments differently based on our backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. Every student brings a unique perspective to campus, and therefore every campus will have individual needs.

This research project collected a body of evidence around student preferences for welcoming and inclusive physical campus environments, sourced from engagements with more than two dozen institutions and more than 200 students. The author used these findings to develop a playbook to guide institutions and design teams through key strategies and possible metrics relative to DEI to use when planning, designing, and assessing physical campus space. The playbook serves as a conversation starter—a way to get planners, designers, and institutional stakeholders to the table and move the needle toward a more supportive physical environment that embodies the strategic values of DEI.

Abstract: Higher Education Business Models Under Stress: Achieving Graceful Transitions in the Academy
by Melody Rose and Larry D. Large
AGP: Washington, DC: 2021
140 Pages
ISBN: 978-1-951635-12-1

Abstract: What if we looked at campus master planning from a wellness-first perspective? We'll discuss how centering student, faculty, and staff wellbeing can create a more engaging campus experience for all. From using wellness key performance indicators (KPIs) to designing for telehealth, minor shifts can make major changes in the health and wellbeing of the campus community.

Abstract: Part 1 of this series described a major contraction in the pool of college-going 18-year-olds that will reverse decades of growth and stability for higher education. Drawing on the path-breaking analysis of Carleton College economist Nathan Grawe, it outlined how widespread but variable the change will be, and discussed some of the effects—on enrollment, revenue, facilities, staffing, and more—for which colleges and universities should be preparing. This Part 2 explores these implications: How can we shape a planning context that supports success in the coming 10 or 20 years? What attitudes and skillsets will remain useful, and what may need to change?

Abstract: Campus health and wellness programs have evolved over the years to promote physical health, nutrition, and mental health for students. The pandemic has made it more urgent for institutions to consider the multidimensional determinants of health and a holistic approach to wellness. How do we address elevated levels of stress on campus through design and programming? How do we design facilities and outdoor spaces for better health outcomes? What role does wellness play in fostering student success and belonging? Come learn from our panel of experts as they share their insights on creating healthier campus environments that support student wellbeing.

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: A long-term decline in birth rates raises fundamental planning questions for higher education as the pool of 18-year-olds contracts after 2025. This Planning for Higher Education series explores how planners and leaders can use the time we have to prepare for some of the most wrenching changes in a generation. This article, Part 1, surveys the planning horizon as we emerge from COVID-19 and describes the challenges ahead. Part 2 considers specific planning strategies institutions can adopt to meet the challenge. Part 3 tackles perhaps the most daunting challenge: how to mobilize institutions to actually do what needs to be done, however inconvenient (or worse) that may be.