Elon University Center for Design Thinking

How Might You Design Your World?

Work at the center, take a design thinking course, or lead a special project with Design for America. There are many ways to explore your interests, develop your skills and help design a better community.

The Center for Design Thinking is led by a group of over 20 student design thinking catalysts. Many workshops are delivered for students, by students. In addition to presenting workshops, student catalysts work on a wide variety of special projects. If you are interested in an on-campus job or special project internship, check out the Elon Job Network for posted positions or email Danielle Lake to discuss how you can get involved.

Example Special Projects

Event planning
Social media
Research
Data analysis
Photography / Videography

a group of 23 students and center for design thinking director danielle lake posing for a group photo at the front of the design thinking classroom space — The spring 2026 student design catalyst team

Design for America

Design for America (DfA) is a student-led and faculty-mentored organization that focuses on tackling social challenges on campus and in the community using the design thinking process. DfA Elon is one of 40 university chapters across the U.S. Since its launch in 2019, DfA Elon has led two projects: an accessibility map for visitors to the Elon campus and a YMCA Innovation Project.

We are currently looking for new DfA officers and members. Get in touch with faculty mentor Danielle Lake if you have an idea for a student-led project that DfA should work on.