Learning Resources

Abstract: In the early 1980s, one man’s vision led to unprecedented educational access for Virgin Islanders. This tour chronicles the development of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) into a locally-grounded tertiary institution with international aspirations. Despite facing a series of challenges—most notably two catastrophic Category 5 hurricanes in 2017 and the COVID-19 pandemic—HLSCC remains steadfast in its mission to serve as an educational center of choice. It has progressed even further by keeping alive the legacy of its founder and all those who served as the institution’s champions. Join us on HLSCC’s journey from recovery to discovery.

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: In order to safely bringing students back to campus during the pandemic, it is imperative that we study diverse individual student journeys and actively engage them in co-designing the solutions. This session will explore the process, key insights, and design interventions from our research project focused on designing a post-pandemic return to campus. Come learn how you can apply student-centered research and design-thinking methods to solve the urgent problem of safely bringing students back to campus.

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: Higher education leaders must evolve in order to navigate the profound changes that are impacting their institutions. These challenging times require strategic foresight, transformative planning skills, and strong execution. With accelerated urgency driving the need for transformation, leaders must apply smart planning competencies to multiple campus areas in order to create a clear road map for future regeneration. Come learn about our framework for leading transformation, including a checklist for success, case studies in change, and resources for smart planning and strong execution that will help you respond to ongoing disruptive factors and plan for a thriving future.

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.

Abstract: Urban innovation districts are becoming more prevalent at a time when universities must rethink the way they build. In this session, we will demonstrate how Drexel University used a mixed-use high rise building within an urban innovation zone to support growing enrollment. You will discover how to utilize mixed-use urban high-rises for creating innovative ecosystems for students, faculty and employers. Come learn how to create a vibrant academic environment within leased space and explore an innovative and cost-effective approach for future expansion and contraction at your institution.