Learning Resources

Abstract: Alvernia University can provide inspiration for planners who must undertake the difficult task of transforming their institution in turbulent times. In four years, Alvernia University has raised $25 million in external support, garnered a $400 thousand grant, and raised enrollment by more than six percent. This session will detail Alvernia University’s transformation strategy, which has radically changed how the university educates students and supports regional economic development. The Alvernia approach offers a proven model that institutions can adapt for their own transformation efforts, cutting plan development and implementation time.

Abstract: Education is rapidly evolving to meet changing workplaces, fueling a race among institutions to offer wider academic tracks tailored to emerging industries. How universities compete with new, responsive programs may need to evolve, too. From eSports and cybersecurity, to clean energy and vehicle electrification, emerging fields of study have potential for immense program growth and unique cross-disciplinary opportunities—yet, they struggle to find a home in traditional academia. Through case studies of three institutions’ newest program offerings, this session will examine what it takes to bring education tracks like eSports and clean energy to campus via highly-specialized learning environments.

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: The role of data-informed decision-making can't be overstated. By leveraging advanced data visualization techniques, these dynamic dashboards provide real-time insights into key performance indicators, enabling informed and strategic decision making. We'll embark on a visual journey into the heart of data-informed decision making with a focus on exceptional dashboards, delving into visual analytics to illuminate the transformative impact they have on leadership and student success. Come learn about the transformative impact that Binghamton University's dashboard creation and visual analytics has on academic leadership, departmental efficiency, student success initiatives, and institutional excellence.

Abstract: Institutions require accurate data to support decision making and planning, so they can and should carefully consider how this data is organized. As higher education continues to evolve to meet new challenges, there are significant opportunities to rethink how institutions are organized to benefit from blending the power of institutional strategy, integrated planning, and analytics. Washington State University (WSU) has evolved to combine these institutional functions into a central unit. This session will show you how to embrace collaborative partnerships and organize similar functions at your institution to bring focus, coordination, and alignment to your institutional planning.

Abstract: Transforming older campuses into healthy, walkable green environments with high-impact programming requires investments in infrastructure, circulation, and buildings? All while addressing legacy assets? Is a major challenge for institutions today. The University of Maryland College Park's (UMD) campus plan sets a visionary yet achievable roadmap for key institutional goals, enabling the evolution of a suburban flagship campus into a vibrant, urban, multi-modal, and carbon-neutral innovation center. This session will offer practical strategies for planners to align diverse interests and stakeholders from across the campus community, clear decision-making hurdles, and balance long-range strategic goals with near-term needs.

Abstract: Aging campus buildings can have a negative impact on student retention and faculty ability to conduct modern research. At the same time, the effects of climate change add urgency to the challenge of managing these outdated campus facilities. We'll share insights from a nine-building comprehensive facility renewal planning effort to maintain the vitality of aging teaching and research facilities while addressing the physical and programmatic needs of contemporary education. This case study will provide a methodology for developing an actionable facility renewal and program enhancement plan that seamlessly incorporates into an existing sustainability and high-performance building framework.

Abstract: Climate commitments and carbon neutrality are becoming top priorities for many campuses. Since building engineering systems account for seventy-to-eighty percent of carbon production, all campus stakeholders are contributors to the future success of emissions goals. Despite established infrastructure, reliance on city utilities, high deferred maintenance, and financial constraints, the University of Louisville (UofL) is pursuing carbon neutrality and is on track to achieve a sixty percent reduction by 2030 and one hundred percent by 2050. This session will share necessary master planning strategies for pursuing carbon neutrality at the campus level, emphasizing the need for rigorous, multi-disciplinary stakeholder engagement.

Abstract: Institutions are struggling to increase retention and success for students from underrepresented and marginalized backgrounds. Michigan State University's (MSU) Multicultural Center offers safe spaces for education, healing, community, and building solidarity with one other. From advocacy to implementation, the student-driven process behind multicultural center was authentic and inclusive, resulting in a multi-functional facility that serves a highly diverse set of cultural activities and promotes a sense of belonging and wellbeing. Involving students at the highest levels of project decision-making during planning and the design process can reinforce an institution's mission around education and commitment to creating authentic, inclusive campus environments.