U-M faculty and staff are invited to introduce students to the Campus of the Future Student Idea Showcase, a multidisciplinary competition this term. This showcase encourages U-M students to create and propose transformative learning ideas. Up to seven finalists will be awarded $500 each and will present their concepts to President Domenico Grasso and Provost Laurie McCauley during a capstone event on April 10. Students or teams must submit their ideas by March 18 to present posters at the April event.
The COTF is a key element in U-M’s Year of Life-Changing Education theme under the Look to Michigan vision, aiming to engage students in dialogues about education’s future at U-M. Covering seven dimensions, COTF features events, workshops, design jams, and showcases of student ideas and projects. These activities aim to integrate student perspectives into strategic planning discussions.
“Students need multiple, meaningful ways to help shape what education becomes at Michigan,” said Demetri Morgan, faculty director of Life-Changing Education and associate professor of education at the Marsal Family School of Education. “They see what’s working and what isn’t in ways faculty and administrators can’t. This showcase gives that perspective a real seat at the table.”
What students can propose
The showcase encourages a wide range of ideas to enhance, reform, or rethink education. Proposals may include products, services, programs, classes, or spaces—ranging from redesigning spaces to innovative teaching methods. A guiding prompt encourages students to envision how U-M could transform its educational ecosystem while maintaining global relevance and accessibility for diverse learners.
Proposals can be individual or team efforts, originating from winter term projects or previous work like course projects or research ideas. Participants are encouraged to align with one of the five Look to Michigan impact areas:
- Life-Changing Education
- Human Health & Well-Being
- Democracy, Civic & Global Engagement
- Energy, Climate Action, Sustainability & Environmental Equity
- Advanced Technology
“This isn’t just for students in design or entrepreneurship programs,” Morgan said. “We need faculty and staff to help students across every school see this as a place to contribute and refine ideas that can shape how learning evolves at Michigan.”
Key dates
Jan. 21, 26: Kick-off events
Learn about participation pathways and expectations.
Jan. 30: Optional initial idea submission
Submit an early concept for feedback and specialized support.
Feb. 11, 18, 19, 20: Optional networking and consulting sessions
Meet with university and industry leaders to refine ideas and strengthen proposals.
March 18: Project submission deadline
Submit a project description for initial judging. After the deadline, university leaders will review submissions and select up to seven finalists.
Mid-March to early April: Finalist team coaching
Finalists will receive coaching to refine their ideas and presentations.
April 10: Presentation & Showcase
Final presentations, poster fair, and awards ceremony (location to be announced).
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