Home / About / Innovation / Innovation 100 Innovation 100 The Innovation 100 Fund is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering innovation and driving positive change within our institution. It is designed to empower Jackson College employees to pursue innovative ideas and projects that have the potential to make a significant impact on student success, institutional improvement, and the broader community. Innovation 100 Projects Jets Studio Submitted by Sonja Howell Jets Studio is a professional-grade media space where students, faculty, and staff create high-quality video lectures, podcasts, and digital content. With soundproofing, versatile tools, and accessible design, it supports modern, engaging instruction across disciplines. The studio empowers creators to integrate multimedia into learning, advancing Innovation 100’s vision for tech-forward, student-centered education. Hybrid Meeting Space Submitted by Brad Choate Originally launched as a single flexible, tech-rich meeting room, this project set the standard for future learning and collaboration at Jackson College. Featuring video conferencing, adaptable furniture, and inclusive tools, it inspired a campus-wide redesign of classrooms. Faculty and staff embraced new teaching models, expanding the initiative and exemplifying Innovation 100’s mission: bold ideas that scale and transform the student experience. Self-Checkout Study Rooms Submitted by Jen Fiero This pilot improves access to HLC study rooms—especially for nursing and allied health students—by replacing key-based entry with self-service reservations. Using LibCal, smart locks, and QR codes, students can reserve and unlock rooms independently. The project boosts student success, reduces staff workload, and models scalable, tech-forward solutions aligned with Innovation 100’s mission. Family Zone Submitted by Jennifer Dobbs Located in Bert Walker Hall, this initiative creates a welcoming environment for students with children. The space is designed to support academic success by offering a comfortable, family-friendly area where student-parents can study, attend virtual classes, or complete coursework without needing separate childcare. Harriets Hub Submitted by Jamie Vandenburgh This project addresses food insecurity by offering free, nutritious food and hygiene products in a welcoming, stigma-free space. Built on student feedback and community partnerships, the pantry connects students to local resources and complements programs like Jackets for Jets. It also creates leadership opportunities and supports academic success—embodying Innovation 100’s mission of student-centered, community-driven transformation. Harriet’s Hub Standing Desks Submitted by Jamie Vandenburgh This project promotes wellness and flexibility by introducing 20 mobile, height-adjustable desks across campus. Easily moved into offices, classrooms, or meeting spaces, the desks support healthier work habits and dynamic learning. By encouraging movement and reducing sedentary time, the initiative enhances productivity and models how small innovations can support Jackson College’s mission of Total Commitment to Student Success.
