DTI Strategic Planning

Ten years ago, a group of Smith College faculty built a pilot initiative in Design Thinking and Innovation with Smith’s president and provost. In fall 2015, they hired the first “Design Thinking Initiative” staff director. Then, the DTI moved into Capen Annex and began to build the place we know today.

During our decennial year, we are celebrating and reflecting on the last ten years, while envisioning the next ten to come.

In fall 2025, we will focus on gathering experiences and ideas, and synthesizing our thoughts as a community. In spring 2026, we will communicate our identity and vision for the future.

Save the Date

for our 10th birthday party!

Saturday, November 1

We’re hosting our birthday party during Come Home to Smith. You can expect creative activities, storytelling, and collaging about the last ten years. Plus, we’ll have cake!

Get Involved

Questions We’re Exploring

During our year of reflection and visioning, we will investigate:

  • Context & History: What is DTI today and how did it get here?
  • Impact: How has DTI impacted the Smith campus (students, faculty, staff), and the world beyond Smith?
  • Vision: What does Smith need most from an interdisciplinary space for design/making? How do we want DTI to evolve in the next ten years?
  • Strategic Priorities: How will we choose what to focus on, and how will we hold ourselves accountable?

Add Your Voice

Keep an eye on this page for a survey where you can contribute your own experiences and ideas, as well as opportunities to share your feedback on potential future visions of the Design Thinking Initiative.