Learning Resources

Abstract: Many institutions are trying to figure out what to do with buildings from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, many of which could be considered “background buildings”. With failing systems and extensive upgrade costs, what are the pros and cons of renew versus replace? Can “old” be made new again while maintaining architectural diversity for students on campus? See how other campuses are dealing with this issue as it relates to policy and capital projects. We'll include case studies of both rehabilitation and tear-down.

Abstract: Design standards define what makes a campus unique without limiting creativity. This session highlights the trials and tribulations of defining what should and should not be in the campus standards. We'll discuss how to rethink the processes for creating and implementing campus standards, focusing on the “why” of campus standards while balancing life-cycle costs and ease of operation. We'll also look at how to better implement and communicate the standards, increasing the likelihood that they are incorporated into projects.

Abstract: Planners are being asked to define programs earlier to facilitate the public-private partnership (P3) selection process for increasingly complex build types. This session will focus on how University of California Merced defined an academic and research science program for an unknown group of scientists to allow for a selection process, the resultant design dilemma faced by the architects, and how the team took on the challenge of modifying the generic laboratories.

Abstract: Institutional data trends over time is important to show progress or areas of concern. It can be equally important to compare oneself to like institutions. Have you ever thought about how a peer group gets determined? If you have a peer group, have you ever wanted to evaluate the group using data? You will learn an approach for developing a data-informed peer group and how benchmarking with a peer group can inform your institution's governing board and be linked to mission.

Abstract: Discover how the University of Pittsburgh delivers diverse expertise and support to communities in need through an off-campus community engagement center initiative. Colleges and universities have a responsibility to use their expansive expertise and knowledge to assist and inspire community members and to broaden the student's perspective. Through a candid discussion about our collective experiences and lessons learned in this new community outreach effort, we will provide you with a roadmap of the various obstacles you must consider at your own institution.

Abstract: This session will examine the successful process behind planning Trippe Hall, a residence hall at Penn State Behrend. The design process incorporated student input at various stages, from schematic design to furniture selection. Attracting prospective students means providing spaces where they want to cultivate their education and community. You will discover new ways to foster student engagement throughout your building design process, resulting in spaces that are ideal for today’s students.

Abstract: The built environment directly affects human health and sustainability coordinators and campus planners are uniquely positioned to advocate for healthier buildings for their students, faculty, and staff. Smith College is a prime example of how a higher education institution can inspire market transformation. The Neilson Library renovation went above and beyond Smith College’s campus sustainability policy by implementing a sustainability charter, prioritizing health and wellness, and advocating for positive change. In this session, you will learn how material transparency and optimization can act as an avenue to address health and wellness in your institution's built environment.

Abstract: 2019 presents a changing landscape as concerns mount over environmental decline, increasing atmospheric carbon, and competition for resources. Across field after field, research demonstrates the impact of the built environment on climate change and the essential role retooling the built environment must play in addressing it. Globally, a massive reallocation of resources has begun as nations commit to addressing climate change and the social and economic equity challenges confronting our increasingly crowded planet.

To achieve Paris Agreement targets and advance the New Urban Agenda adopted at Habitat III, architects, planners, and owners must fundamentally transform how buildings are designed, constructed, and operated. Creative and courageous people are forging new pathways full of promise and hope.

Institutions of higher learning have always been laboratories for testing new approaches at multiple scales—building, campus, and institutional. This keynote will articulate the compelling 21st century challenges and opportunities for the design and planning fields in higher education.

Abstract: This session will explore in-depth case studies of two interdisciplinary centers for STEM learning, innovation, and entrepreneurship, one at a leading liberal arts college (Washington and Lee University), and the other at a large research university (Virginia Commonwealth University). Leaders involved in the planning, design, operation, and evolution of two successful STEM and innovation centers will share the most impactful decisions affecting the long-term success of their work, including how location, governance, funding, programming, and promotion influence dynamic interdisciplinary results.

Abstract: Through cross-disciplinary collaboration, Pennovation Works at the University of Pennsylvania has become a successful place for entrepreneurship in the 21st century. The Philadelphia campus unites research and private venture in a central innovation incubator and generates a diverse community, new economy, and enhanced visibility for its institution. We will reveal our methodology for how institutions can generate new economies, define an innovation campus identity, and utilize brownfields. Come learn how integrated design of collaborative space can inform a non-traditional innovation campus.