Event Recap: Higher Education Panel From Mega MD

October 19, 2021

Local colleges and universities are overcoming a variety of obstacles in today’s world, particularly due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, enrollment, funding, and facilities have been drastically impacted.

A leader in Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Facilities & Real Estate, Coretta Bennett, Director of Operations, Design and Construction explains JHU’s procurement process. This methodology is responsible for managing JHU’s 17 million square feet of real estate space within the Greater Baltimore area.

While many universities are experiencing a decrease in enrollment, Morgan State University has seen an all-time high in applications over the past year. Kim McCalla, Associate Vice President of Facilities, Design, and Construction, discusses the challenges in preparing for this rise in enrollment, including building maintenance, the construction of new facilities, and upgraded  student housing.

How are universities responding to the need for upgrades to account for flex learning space? Terrence Sawyer, Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer of Loyola University Maryland, shares the idea of the outdoor classroom, necessary upgrades to traditional brick and mortar learning styles, and repurposing space to allow for social distanced learning creatively.

How does the procurement process vary from public and private institutions? Katherine Dixon, Assistant Vice President for Facilities for Baltimore City Community College (BCCC), discusses the differences between facility renewal grant projects, state procurement, and independent procurement. Recently, BCCC received authorization for independent procurement for smaller construction projects. In addition, the college is implementing their updated master plan for signage and wayfinding.

In the next few years, due to demographic shifts, colleges and universities will see a dwindling market of students. Due to this, they will have to think strategically and creatively in order to capture a larger share of this shrinking market. A/E/C professionals can assist schools by providing services to help them differentiate themselves from other institutions.

Thank you to all attendees for joining this insightful conversation and to SAME for allowing SMPS to be a part of MEGA MD!