Student Changemakers Sought for McMillon Innovation Studio Design Teams
The McMillon Innovation Studio exists to shape the future of commerce by developing and enabling students to be catalysts of innovation. Located in the Harmon Parking Garage, the Studio loves to see student-led ideas come to life.
Students interested in harnessing innovation to solve real-world problems are encouraged to apply for the spring 2024 Design Teams in the McMillon Innovation Studio.
Established around three impact tracks — organizational, social and entrepreneurial — design teams allow students to harness human-centered design principles to solve pressing industry problems, create social impact or work toward their own startup ideas.
The semester will conclude with Demo Day, the studio's capstone event showcasing the learnings and prototypes developed by student teams.
Applications close Jan. 20. The typical weekly time commitment is two to five hours.
Previous design teams have worked to improve the mobile pantry at the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank, develop referral and support systems for in-patient psychiatric care and reimagined Drake Field as a hub for autonomous vehicles.
"Our Design Teams Program is a great way to gain real-world experience," said Jessica Andrews, the studio's associate director. "Students gain and grow skills in teamwork, problem-solving and critical thinking by working on a project with a corporation, small business or nonprofit. Studio members also have exclusive, 24/7 access to the McMillon Innovation Studio space on campus."
Andrews said students who are a team for one semester are eligible to apply for a paid project manger position, allowing them an opporunity to lead a team the following semester.
"Our goal is to support students in gaining the experience needed to succeed after graduation," Andrews said.
About McMillon Innovation Studio: The McMillon Innovation Studio exists to shape the future of commerce by developing and enabling students to be catalysts of innovation. The studio hosts interdisciplinary student collaboration teams and provides prototyping space for students and faculty across campus to connect and create together. Inside the studio, students have access to makerspace tools like CAD modeling and 3D printers, as well as a band saw, drill press, CNC and sewing machine.
Topics
Contacts
Jessica Andrews, associate director
McMillon Innovation Studio
479-575-2470,
jma045@uark.edu
Brandon Howard, communication and social media specialist
Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation
501-707-5779,
bjhoward@uark.edu
Headlines
Peter Ungar Chosen as Member of the National Academy of Sciences
A distinguished professor of anthropology and director of environmental dynamics, Ungar is the first U of A faculty member to be elected to the prestigious Academy.
Ag Technology Students Visit Greenway Equipment, Learn About Advances in Machinery
Members of the U of A's Agricultural Systems and Technology Club recently spent a day at the Greenway Technology Farm in Newport to learn about advances featured in John Deere tractors and machinery.
College of Education and Health Professions WE CARE Everywhere Campaign Kicks Off This Summer
Retractable scroll banners with the phrase "WE CARE Everywhere" are small enough to fit any suitcase and just waiting for your chance to shine in social media posts throughout the summer.
Staff Senators for 2024-25 Elected
Twelve newly elected staff members will begin serving the U of A staff community for three-year terms beginning July 1 on the university's Staff Senate.
Matlock Briefs Congressional Staff Regarding Crop Sustainability Research
Professor Marty Matlock briefed U.S. House of Representative and Senate staff members on research conducted by the U of A regarding the effects of management practices on crop sustainability.