February 2023 - Current
Old Dominion University
Organization Type
Academic / Research Institution
Industry/Sector
Education
Service Provided
Co-Creation / Collaboration
blue and silver pride and impact.
Old Dominion University (ODU) is a designated R1 research institution located in the Hampton Roads region, its main campus located in Norfolk. ODU is home to seven academic colleges, three schools, and numerous institutes and centers of research and thought leadership, contributing $2.6 Billion to Virginia's economy annually. A culturally and academically diverse university, ODU prides itself in its students, faculty, and staff- all making to its local and global impact possible.
overview
As Old Dominion University enters its next era as an R1 university and carries out its new strategic plan “Where Innovation Meets Possibility”, a couple of emergent themes rose to the top. Some of these include embracing a culture of innovation, being forward-focused, fostering inclusivity and accessibility, increasing local and global impact, engaging in more community and industry collaborations, expanding research funding, and supporting further academic excellence. As a part of the University’s greater vision, new tactics, partnerships, and creative approaches are needed to help make that vision reality.
details
Symposium Partnership: Initiated the ODU Institute of Coastal Adaptation and Resilience’s collaborative role in the CAN Foundation’s Climate Symposium- bringing together a unique blend of multimedia artists, municipal resilience officers, and scientists to talk about the impact of climate change, and the intersections and interdependencies of their fields.
Experiential Learning Opportunities: Teamed up with university professors to create real experiential learning, problem-solving, and consulting opportunities for their students with local organizations and businesses. - Strategic Thought Partnership: Provided valuable insights and innovative approaches to challenges and strategic goals for various key internal stakeholders at the university including students, deans, professors, center directors, and associate vice presidents.
Relational Architecting: Identified and architected relationships that are strategically positioned to become innovative partnerships and collaborations between ODU and an array of diverse stakeholders, industries, and sectors, helping enrich the university's relationships and advance its innovative vision.
“It is very easy to write about Destini's good qualities because there are so many. I am particularly impressed with her ability to connect people. As one example, Destini helped me locate a corporate partner for a class project for the MBA course I teach. Destini connected us in a very short period of time and it highlights her (a) creativity and (b) network within Hampton Roads. If you need something done or to connect with anyone, let Destini help you out. You will not be disappointed!”
RHETT EPLER
Assistant Professor of Marketing, Old Dominion University