Learning Resources

Abstract: Bennett College, a historically Black private women's college founded in 1873, underwent two periods of growth in the 1920s and 1930s, resulting in a collection of handsome, Georgian Revival-style buildings sited around a rectangular quadrangle with double rows of oak and magnolia trees lining its east and west sides. Funding helped the college to develop a preservation plan for its 25-acre historic core, designated a Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places, in order to identify an overall preservation strategy and serve as the basis for all future conservation work.

Abstract: Together with Morehouse and Spelman Colleges (both also awarded Campus Heritage grants), Clark Atlanta is part of the Atlanta University Center (AUC), the largest consortium of historically Black institutions in the US. Clark Atlanta was formed in 1988 with the merger of Atlanta University, chartered in 1867, and Clark College, founded in 1877. Despite the historic significance of the buildings on the campus, little was known about aspects of their original appearance or previous alterations. Clark Atlanta conducted archival research to document its historic resources, examine overall building conditions, and develop treatment guidelines.

Abstract: The range of potential STEM careers is growing rapidly, yet people of color are underrepresented in STEM professions. New academic facilities can promote these careers through recruiting, retaining, and connecting with undergraduate talent. This session will explore an integrated approach to planning, design, and branding an HBCU's new STEM facility, including carefully developed digital messaging, to encourage student awareness of STEM academic pathways and professional opportunities. Come hear about strategies and lessons learned in working with architects, graphic designers, and digital content providers to develop this environment.

Abstract: Recently, education researchers have emphasized the redesign of learning spaces to better accommodate pedagogical change. In particular, studies have found evidence of the relationship between the built environment and learning outcomes—however, no current studies have deliberately focused on the “minority majority” feature of America’s future student composition.

This pilot study was conducted to evaluate how space contributes to the learning outcomes of a demographically diverse class of students at Morgan State University, a Historically Black Institution. Based on the neurobiological literature on environmental enrichment, the authors hypothesized that an enriched learning environment will correlate with increased student activity (directed movement) and engagement (with other students, with room features) and result in significantly improved learning outcomes for an ethnically diverse student group.

Abstract: “[This] is a complete guide on strategic planning, presenting step by step the 5 major components of an integrated planning process. It is also a most useful, exhaustive, and updated list of definitions; presentation of all components and subcomponents; suggestions of strategies; and well-chosen examples . . . As I continue my work with Francophone universities, some in Africa, it will be my honor and pleasure to be inspired and accompanied by the Fountains’ guide.”
—Roland Proulx, Consultant, Institutional Planning & Strategic Intelligence, University of Montreal

With a heavy use of SCUP resource materials, SCUPers Doug and JoEllyn Fountain have written the book they wish someone had handed them when they began working for eight years with a rapidly growing university in Uganda. “While North American universities are developing LEED certified buildings, we were trying to pave roads and get stable electricity. We looked long and hard for materials and advisors who could help us with basic issues.”