Design and innovation—that’s our thing. But we don't do it alone. From curious students to bold faculty partners, we collaborate with thinkers and doers from every corner of campus to turn big ideas into real-world impact. This space is where we share stories of creativity, collaboration, and the unexpected moments that design brings to life. Dive in and explore how innovation unfolds in classrooms, across disciplines, and out in the world; one experiment at a time.
Featured Stories
Anntoinette Barbour Reimagining How She Works
Anntoinette from the Quantum Startup Foundry participated in the Teaching and Learning Studio (TLS) in summer 2024.
From Peer Innovation Coach to Game Creator
What starts in The Loft doesn’t stay there! Xinyi Zhang turned a heartfelt chat into Sea My Culture—a vibrant board game celebrating global cultures.
500 friends but no one to play with
In a digital age, how do we truly connect with ourselves and others in intentional ways? IDEA360: 500 friends but no one to play with is a course that explores this question and more.
Stories of collaboration and experimentation
A Journey Through Design
This past January, Christina Hnatov, Academy Experience and Curriculum Designer, and TLS Alum and friend of the Academy, Gerald Suarez, embarked on a two-week experiential learning adventure through Barcelona and Madrid, Spain. Their mission? To co-facilitate BGMT469E, crafting an unforgettable, han...View Article Details for A Journey Through Design Academy Alumni Spotlight: Clark Mitchell
As a Peer Innovation Coach and student-initiated course instructor, Clark helped peers unlock the power of design thinking across disciplines. From teaching user experience and biomimicry to embracing empathy and rapid iteration, his journey through The Academy cultivated a mindset rooted in curiosi...View Article Details for Academy Alumni Spotlight: Clark Mitchell Regenerate! Orchestra
Founded by Wesley Hornpetrie, Regenerate! Orchestra of DMV invites people of all backgrounds—regardless of musical training—to co-create inclusive concert experiences. Inspired by a sister chapter in Michigan, R!O centers human connection and community participation, asking, “What if we rebuilt the ...View Article Details for Regenerate! Orchestra Design Meets Downward Dog
Anne Zappas ’21 blends the worlds of design and wellness through Rooted Rainbow Yoga, her Arlington-based studio dedicated to self-discovery and belonging. Guided by tools like “How Might We” statements and why-laddering—introduced during her time as a peer innovation coach—Anne reimagined the purpo...View Article Details for Design Meets Downward Dog Voter Involvement Pop-Up!
On Election Day, Innovation Fellow Teresa Williams transformed a campus walkway into a space of gratitude and reflection. With the Frederick Douglass statue as her backdrop, Teresa welcomed voters with personalized keepsakes, an interactive voting importance continuum, and a message: your voice matt...View Article Details for Voter Involvement Pop-Up!