Learning Resources

Abstract: The Dr. EJ and Margaret O'Brien Hall at Marquette University showcases the ways in which relationship building between people, disciplines, space types, and contexts advances design to achieve human-purposed, inclusive outcomes for the department and campus. In this session, we'll discuss the new convening, inclusive, student-focused hub for business and innovation leadership and demonstrate how it exemplifies the core tenets of relationship building in navigating campus engagement, design process, and future success. Join us to learn useful strategies around relationship building within your campus communities, collaborative design processes for hybrid learning, intersecting purpose-built and loose-fit design, and post-pandemic student wellbeing.

Abstract: In a time of racial segregation and limited opportunity, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) became pillars of the African American community, fostering academic excellence and a sense of cultural identity. HBCU leaders will discuss their institutions' significant and dynamic journeys over the years, and how they have evolved through different historical contexts and social changes. Join us to hear critical stories of how HBCUs have leveraged physical, academic, financial, and operational strategies to enhance and strengthen their missions, from their early years, through the pandemic, and today.

Abstract: Designing a forward-thinking research building without identified occupants is a bold undertaking. Through an integrated planning and data-driven process, North Carolina State University (NCSU) designed a flexible academic research building, inspiring cross-functional collaboration which has led to increased industry partnerships and innovation. This session will highlight how a collaborative team enabled decision-making throughout the design process to create a future-proofed, energizing hub for academic research. Come learn how to leverage benchmarking, analytics, and an integrated planning process to design successful and innovative buildings on your campus.

Abstract: Post-covid, many campuses are still struggling with balancing in-person, remote, and hybrid student experiences. Working within tight funding constraints, University of Washington (UW) Bothell developed a strategy to revitalize the campus core, double down on in-person experiences, and repurpose underutilized spaces for future flexibility. Come learn about new broadly applicable methods and solutions for revitalizing campuses in our current and future condition of blended in-person, remote, and hybrid educational models.

Abstract: Transforming vacant off-campus buildings into vibrant centers of learning and experience extends an institution’s presence and mission and helps dismantle town and gown barriers. Using the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Nimoy Theater as a case study, this session will discuss the reasons, benefits, and unique aspects of building off campus to expand community engagement opportunities for students, faculty, and alumni. We’ll share real time lessons in navigating a purchase, adapting a historic building, meeting building standards, coordinating with local agencies, and applying university standards for safety, access, sustainability and contracting.

Abstract: Effective partnering, internally and externally, and addressing enrollment growth, vitality, and safety during the planning process can make all the difference in plan implementation. The 2017 University of Washington (UW) Bothell and Cascadia College campus master plan demonstrates how clear design principles and a flexible development framework drove rapid progress in realizing a campus vision in under six years. This session will help you identify how strong partnerships forged during a planning process can positively impact capital development, inform innovative capital funding strategies, and rapidly catapult your campus vision into reality.

Abstract: Many campuses face challenges integrating with their surrounding urban contexts. Gateway buildings along campus edges can reinvigorate campus-city connectivity while a contextual design can contribute to an institution’s sense of place. The Catholic University of America’s newly completed School of Nursing and gateway plaza serves as a threshold between the urban fabric and pastoral landscape with a collegiate gothic exterior and an educationally advanced, innovative interior. This session will illustrate a project case study that engages the surrounding urban context with sustainable, responsible design, combining a historically responsive exterior with technology-rich, contemporary interior spaces.

Abstract: In order for institutions to support students’ desire for engagement and impact within their local, regional, and national communities, they must plan and design spaces that foster instruction, discourse, and invention. This session will evaluate Thurgood Marshall Hall on its promise as an integrated scholar-practitioner community within the University of Maryland’s (UMD) Do Good Campus for social impact education. After a year of occupation, we’ll share how we conducted a qualitative assessment of the building with a wide cross-section of stakeholders and how the resulting lessons will impact the campus’s ‘Do Good’ mission and inform future planning and design.

Abstract: As trade schools gain national recognition for their affordability and career-centric focus, Raleigh’s Wake Technical Community College (WTCC) has set a new standard for strategic facilities design by capitalizing on community, industry, and government partnerships. This session will show how WTCC is producing the next generation of innovative automotive repair technicians and leaders through an immersive program that aligns industry partnerships, high-tech education, employment opportunities, and local economic development goals. Discover how WTCC’s new automotive laboratory consolidates diverse programs into one building with agile, collaborative spaces, preparing students for emerging technologies in rapidly changing industries.

Abstract: There are distinct advantages to both renovation and new construction; an optimal blend of these approaches can enable opportunities for physical growth, evolving programs, and a minimally disruptive reimagining of campus buildings. We’ll explore two case studies from James Madison University (JMU) ?the College of Business and the Carrier Library?that illustrate how to affordably transform outdated and stylistically unloved buildings into vibrant academic and student life hubs. Join us to gain a greater understanding of the hidden value of aging buildings, considering aspects such as functionality, cost, operations, sustainability, and stylistic potential.