h2. Name of Concept: Building 87 - Center for Student Innovation and Social Responsibility


h2. Overview

Narrative - This concept is not completely new.  However, it takes what has started and moves it towards a more successful engagement at RIT.

RIT falls behind the curve when it comes to social responsibility.  However, all the right pieces are here on campus to become an industry leader in this area if we work more collaboratively and leverage the resources at hand.  We currently have a Center for Student Innovation which is under-utilized, we have expertise in sustainable systems, we have the desire from the student, alumni, faculty, and corporate population to work together, as well as a world class facility (if used to its potential). 

What if RIT retooled its flagship LEAD building, building 87 to host a series of research projects that join together corporate employees, students, alumni and others to address issues that would help the greater good.  Since the modular work areas can be changed to meet needs, each of the three floors could be adjusted to meet the sponsors needs for work space. This facility would become a showcase of collaborative work which would make corporate fundraising and grant work much easier to obtain.   The location would also be a benefit since it s already connected to CIMS, GCCIS, KGCOE and other relevant areas.

h2. How this idea leverages current areas of RIT expertise

This concept will bring together resources from each of the colleges and other areas at RIT for a purpose.  The current mode of operations in research, education, innovation, and many other aspects is fragmented due to the silos on campus.

h2. Main RIT on-campus champion(s) for this idea

Director of Center for Student Innovation

Provost

h2. Is there potential off-campus advocacy and support for the idea?

Yes, situational based on research initiative.

h2. How you envision this idea advancing RIT's national or global stature in an important or emerging field

1.    International University - Bring in projects from across the globe to address issues.

2.    Sustainability - Facility could be used to develop and design solutions for campus sustainability project.

3.    Research - Provide RIT with a research facility that would become a showcase for our talents

4.    Student Experience - such projects would assist students with getting real life experiences, coops, travel, and opportunities for exciting educational opportunities.

5.    Innovation - this gives RIT the opportunity to be more innovative and will provide students with an opportunity to "hang their hat" on something they worked on here at RIT.  This will lead to life long affinity with RIT and increase future interactions.

h2. Why you believe RIT has a unique opportunity or an ability to differentiate itself through this idea

RIT doesn't know how big it has become.  We have the tendency to think "small" when it comes to our operation.  Using our collective knowledge and resources could help us to think "big picture", but would require us to break down the barriers between colleges and departments.  By doing so, we would open up the opportunity to create something that may change the world.\\
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