As George Mason University continues to grow and transform the world by producing new leaders and creating new solutions and knowledge, transformation can be seen every day right on campus. Earlier this spring, one such example of this transformation was unveiled with the official opening of the new interdisciplinary Life Sciences and Engineering Building (LSEB) on the Science and Technology (SciTech) Campus.
LSEB, a cross-functional labor of love for departments and offices across campus, demonstrates George Mason’s dedication to using technology to help students, faculty, and researchers elevate their learning, teaching, and exploration. And Information Technology Services (ITS) played a crucial role in this transformation.
We recently sat down with Crystal Clemons, Classroom and Lab Technologies Director, and LeAnn Pittman, Learning Space Design Manager, who shared their insights into the transformative role of technology in higher education and how LSEB serves as a bedrock for using thoughtful design to foster collaboration across various academic disciplines in future buildings.
A Shared Support Model
The new building represents a significant shift towards a shared support model. This approach eliminates traditional departmental boundaries, encouraging cross-disciplinary activities in research and academics, and creating environments for faculty to introduce and utilize technology in new ways.
“LSEB is designed to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and resources. It was specifically designed to support this goal by integrating technology that enriches and elevates both the learning and research experiences,” said Clemons.
The shared spaces are equipped with standardized technology, making it easier for faculty to transition between different classrooms and research environments without disruption to the teaching, learning, and research processes and it is easier for technical staff to support and maintain.
Enhancing Learning and Research with Technology
Providing tools that facilitate seamless transitions and interactions makes the educational process more efficient and engaging. The introduction of advanced active learning classrooms, equipped with multiple displays and collaborative workspaces, has been particularly well-received by faculty members who previously lacked such facilities.
“Our goal is to leverage technology that enriches and elevates the learning experience. Equally important is our ability to support this technology effectively. The LSEB initiative represents a harmonious blend of creating spaces equipped with standardized, easily supported technology and offering faculty the seamless transition from teaching in one classroom to conducting research in another. We aim to provide technology that ensures a smooth, uninterrupted teaching and learning process.” said Clemons.
Overcoming Technological Challenges
One of the notable challenges was the need for robust infrastructure to support advanced technologies. Issues such as insufficient Wi-Fi coverage and outdated networking equipment that some faculty experience in older buildings and classrooms can hinder the effectiveness of new tools. The ITS team proactively addressed these concerns, ensuring that LSEB is equipped with high-speed networking and reliable wireless connectivity.
Adapting to Changing Needs
While for many, LSEB’s opening this spring was the beginning of an exciting and bright future, for teams like ITS, it was the pinnacle of years of planning, learning new technologies, and turning designs into reality. With projects often spanning several years from conception to completion, the ITS team offers a vital perspective to anticipate future technology needs and trends. This involves continuous research and prototyping to ensure that the solutions implemented today will remain relevant and effective in the years to come. With each new build, ITS staff not only help inform technology decision-making but must be ready to support it. Rather than a hindrance, this is seen as an opportunity for technicians to gain new training and hands-on learning.
“Every time the technology changes, so does the skillset to support it,” said Pittman. “As soon as we hear interest in something, we jump on researching and prototyping because we need to see how it’s going to function so by the time that building comes up, we already know how it needs to work,” Pittman went on to say.
Multidisciplinary Buildings Designed by Multidisciplinary Project Teams
Effective collaboration between ITS and other departments is crucial for the success of these projects. While the level of collaboration can vary depending on the project, for LSEB, the ITS team provided valuable input and feedback throughout the planning and implementation phases, ensuring that the technological solutions aligned with the university’s vision and goals.
To truly top off the successful opening of LSEB, the team involved in the effort, including ITS staff, was recently awarded the Patriot Pathbreakers Award at the 2025 Outstanding Achievement Awards. The team was recognized for their work “designing an effective operational model and addressing challenges to support the multidisciplinary spaces. Their collaboration, creativity, and dedication have made these buildings ready to serve George Mason’s academic and research missions. This commitment to excellence makes them truly deserving of this recognition.”
Looking Ahead
As the university continues to expand and innovate, the ITS team is already exploring new technologies such as smart building systems, augmented reality, and advanced networking solutions. By staying attuned to industry trends and maintaining a forward-thinking approach, they aim to continue to create learning environments that support the future leaders and problem solvers of George Mason.