Lehigh’s New Cross-Disciplinary Framework for Arts and Libraries
Lehigh University is embarking on a transformative journey by reshaping the role of its arts and libraries as central hubs for cross-disciplinary collaboration. This strategic initiative aims to foster creativity and innovation across various fields, leveraging the technologies and expertise provided by ITS (Information Technology Services).
“Our work at Lehigh is enabled by the technologies and expertise that ITS provides, so those of us in the Arts and Libraries division will continue to work closely with the ITS teams,” said Reihman. “In particular, we will continue to innovate with the use of emerging digital tools for scholarship, creation, engagement and communication.”
The new structure promises to enhance opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to participate in creative endeavors while also advancing academic scholarship. Recognizing that students from diverse disciplines engage in the arts, the framework is designed to provide robust institutional support for both undergraduate and graduate students pursuing creative ventures.
Key emphasized the importance of physical spaces in this initiative, stating, “A library is a facility, yet much of the heart and soul is the librarians, artists, technologists and pedagogical experts coming together in those spaces.” By integrating these elements into teaching and learning, ITS aims to equip faculty and students with the necessary technologies and support to realize their creative dreams.
Furthermore, the reorganization will enable ITS teams to pool resources, fostering collaboration and strategic planning to innovate and operationalize artificial intelligence effectively.
Strengthening Community Connections
The restructured framework also underscores the pivotal role of Lehigh’s cultural and intellectual assets in connecting the university with the broader community. The libraries, galleries, and Zoellner Arts Center act as gateways for the public to immerse themselves in the campus’s vibrant arts culture, serving as primary interaction points for Lehigh Valley residents with the university.
By aligning these resources under a unified strategic vision, Lehigh aims to enhance the visibility and accessibility of its cultural and scholarly offerings to the regional community.
Advancing Educational and Research Excellence
In alignment with these structural changes, the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning will now report to Dominic Packer, vice provost for Educational Innovation and Assessment. This move reinforces Lehigh’s dedication to using evidence-based methodologies to improve teaching practices and support faculty.
Research Computing will maintain its reporting structure to Key while also receiving guidance from Anand Jagota, vice provost for research. This ensures robust coordination between digital infrastructure and the university’s research initiatives.
These developments aim to create environments, both physical and digital, that enhance teaching, learning, research, and the overall user experience for the campus community.
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