Since 2016, Elon University’s Center for Design Thinking has empowered thousands of students, faculty and partners to tackle challenges with fresh perspectives. We extend these methods beyond campus, collaborating with universities, companies and nonprofits nationwide to reimagine how they solve complex problems.

If your team is ready to start thinking differently,
let’s start a conversation!

Consulting Types

We can engage with your organization for short or extended periods of time, depending on your needs and goals. If you are unsure what level of engagement is right for you, we can set up a consultation to discuss what best fits your needs.

Single Engagements

We are happy to work with you for a singular workshop ranging from 1 to 5 hours. These are best for skill building, professional development, and facilitated problem solving.

Project Facilitation

We can provide tailored solutions to assist in solving problems and facilitating projects. This can last for a few weeks or months, depending on your project timeline.

Design Thinking Coaching

Let us develop a coaching plan to help your organization build understanding of design thinking practices. We provide comprehensive training to give you the tools you need to drive meaningful change.

Organizational Change

We can work alongside your organization as you tackle systemic issues and implement new programming options. We can also collaborate with external partners and facilitate research in conjunction with this work.

Consulting Formats

  • In the center: Our space on Elon University’s campus provides a flexible and safe format for facilitating collaboration and creativity.
  • In your space: We will meet you wherever you are.
  • Outdoors: Get outside and engage in design thinking community-building activities.
  • Live webinar: We can facilitate virtual workshops with small groups and classes via WebEx or Zoom.
  • Pre-recorded: We have a number of pre-recorded workshops, toolkits and activities to meet your needs.

Past Clients

Bridgewater State University

{Re}Imagining Life Design Curriculum
Dr. Lake advised faculty on best practices for life design project-based curricula.


Clark University

Design Thinking Problems of Practice
The center supported Clark University’s Problems of Practice curricular initiative via a four-part faculty development design thinking workshop series and a keynote talk on how to “Design Think Wicked Problems in the Classroom.”


North Carolina Dressage and Combined Training Association

Designing for an Equitable & Inclusive Equine Training Industry
Aaron Chan ’26, Peyton Patrick ’27, Cece Ebora ’27 and Dr. Lake helped NC Dressage Association reimagine their approach in the equine training industry so it is more inclusive and equitable.

Radford University

Design Thinking Wicked Problems
Adam Kanowitz ’25, John Cirelli ’27 and Dr. Lake traveled to Radford University to support their Wicked Problems initiative. They completed a multi-methods assessment of Radford’s work, a keynote talk at the Wicked Problems Festival, and a faculty development workshop.


Stetson University

ReDesigning Greek Housing
Adam Kanowitz ’25, Maddie Gibson ’26 and Dr. Lake supported Stetson’s efforts to co-design a living and learning experience for students in Greek life.


University of Dayton

Supporting Community-Faculty-Student through Design Thinking
Lily Gooding ’26, Julia Chan ’26 and Dr. Lake facilitated three sessions for community partners, faculty and students to help them cultivate mutually beneficial partnerships and cope with setbacks.