Inside the Mind of a da Vinci Student

30%
Empathy

We believe that innovative solutions are born out of a deep sense of empathy towards the people they are designed for.

28%
Communication

Being able to communicate is one of the most essential skills in life and can take a lifetime to master.

21%
Collaboration

One of our favorite parts of collaboration is that it brings people together. Also, it’s always nice to have a team!

21%
Design Thinking

Design thinking is more than a process, it is a human-centered mindset that can be applied in virtually any situation.

 


 

How can I engage with the da Vinci Center?

Open Hours 

Come by and meet us!
Open Hours start Aug. 19
Monday through Wednesday (12-3pm) Shift Retail Lab
1235 W Broad Street
No RSVP Needed.

Events

From student showcases to industry collaborations, our events buzz with creativity. Join the mix and meet makers, dreamers, and doers from across campus and beyond.

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Workshops

Boost creativity and problem-solving with hands-on sessions featuring Design Thinking, the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, prototyping, and more.

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Shift Retail Lab

Test, develop, and showcase your ideas in a real retail space. Gain feedback, connect with customers, and refine your products with hands-on support.

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Micro-Credentials

Complete our micro-credential courses to earn Credly badges and share on your LinkedIn profile!

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Support

Help us empower students and fuel innovation by donating today. Your support provides resources, workshops, and opportunities that inspire creativity and real-world impact.

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Empowering Students to Redefine Learning

At the da Vinci Center, we are redefining the future of higher education by offering interdisciplinary, hands-on, and experimental experiences that empower students to shape their own paths.

Driven by curiosity, we emphasize hands-on, student-driven exploration over traditional silos. Whether solving for real-world challenges or engaging in collaborative projects that push the boundaries of innovation, our students share a passion for bold ideas and a dedication to creating a better future.

 


 

Two students in Shift Retail Lab at VCU, holding up the Fast Company 2024 Award Winners Magazine, in which Shift Retail Lab is listed. One students holds the magazine open to the page of winners while the other reads the magazine.

SHIFT Retail Lab named winner

The next generation of entrepreneurs won’t be stuck in the classroom.
Virginia Commonwealth University reimagines entrepreneurship training with its Shift Retail Lab, a winner of 2023’s Innovation By Design Awards. Read the full article >>

Visit Shift Website

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