Learning Resources

Abstract: Temple University’s new Charles Library is the social and academic heart for a large and diverse student body. Within a vibrant urban context the project reinterprets the traditional research library typology as a dynamic learning hub. Our tour guides will walk you through this international award-winning facility to share the thought process behind the design, project challenges and solutions, and provide an update on how the library has performed since its opening in Fall 2019.

Abstract: Applying interdisciplinary planning to cultivate entrepreneurship research and innovation can boost student retention and drive revenue; it can also help students in art and design fields find lasting career success. Arizona State University has developed processes to bolster entrepreneurship and innovation while revitalizing downtown Phoenix's cultural scene, resulting in a mutually beneficial town and gown development of collaboration hubs. Come learn how to develop strategic partnerships among university, developer, and consultant stakeholders at your institution as well as optimize site development for long-term improvements in recruitment, retention, and revenue.

Abstract: Many institutions will not change their mission because of the pandemic, but they will need to change their approach to fulfilling that mission. This session will focus on a proven process for fairly and holistically evaluating all current academic programs and support functions to assess their value and contribution to institutional success. Reallocating resources is difficult in the best of times and performing this function under financial distress is exponentially tougher. Come learn how you can apply our collaborative approach at your institution to make this process more manageable and achieve better outcomes.

Abstract: Over the past year, there have been institutional shifts in practices, policies, and innovative approaches to change. This phase of a revolution of postsecondary education demonstrates that our 'lived experience' is not intended to last or remain unchanged permanently. This realization has been growing in awareness but is accelerated by a national pandemic. College planning has taken on a new meaning as variables of change. It encompasses and requires a recognition that there is a systemic confluence of forces that encompass infrastructure, technology, people, and social justice. Without continuous adaptation and thinking smarter, quicker, and more innovatively, an effective college will fail to integrate the dynamics of accelerated change, as they affect each institution's policies, people, finances and student success outcomes. Join us to discuss the paradigm shift and its potential impact on our educational infrastructure, ecosystem, and role.

Abstract: The global challenge of climate change demands new paradigms of leadership that prioritize interdisciplinary solutions and the voices of marginalized communities. Universities are uniquely situated to lead the way. We will explore ways that a design thinking process can build a visible culture of sustainability at the hyper-local campus scale and drive climate action across academics, governance, and operations. Aligning climate action with existing priorities creates synergies, especially where stakeholders may already be stretched thin. Learn how a design thinking approach facilitates this type of cross-disciplinary work.

Abstract: The level of buy-in from key stakeholders determines the ultimate success of any strategic plan. This session explores two frameworks—design thinking and liberating structures—that help university leaders ensure the entire campus community feels engaged in the strategic planning process. Strategic planning should be transparent and inclusive—we will demonstrate how you can achieve this comprehensive buy-in through implementing specific structures during each phase of the plan. Come learn action-oriented strategies for engaging students, faculty, staff, alumni, and local community in all phases of strategic planning on your campus.

Abstract: Applying design thinking to strategic and academic plan development can help identify innovative priorities and create a sense of ownership at the individual level, establishing buy-in through the planning process. In this session, we'll explore how a regional comprehensive university incorporated design thinking throughout the development of its strategic and academic plans. Come learn how to employ design thinking to actively engage diverse stakeholders in the planning process, creating alignment and laying the groundwork for an integrated approach to implementation.