Overview

Unleashing Student Innovation for a Sustainable Future

Whitman’s Vision: Empower students to tackle global challenges with innovative solutions.

Student Challenge: Students will identify an opportunity within one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and propose a game-changing solution.

Open To: Teams of 2-5 students with at least one student coming from Whitman.  Diverse skillsets are encouraged, participation from other schools and colleges at Syracuse University is welcome as long as the team has a Whitman representative.

Why Participate:

This is your chance to make a difference, learn valuable skills and compete for top prizes.

You will also get the chance to:

• Develop essential skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Make a real impact by addressing global challenges with potential for real-world application.
• Win big: $25,000 in prizes!
• Get recognized with winners being featured in the Whitman Magazine and connected with influential alumni.
  

The Journey: Four Phases

The journey begins in Feb. 2024, with registration deadline on March 1.

• Opportunity recognition: Choose a UN Sustainable Development Goal and identify an opportunity for innovation.
• Ideation and research: Craft a compelling solution through workshops, master classes and expert guidance.
• Prototype development: Develop your prototype, showcase your idea in a written report and a 45-second video.
• Competition: Gain exposure, win prizes and network with alumni mentors and industry leaders. Show off your work at the Dean’s Showcase and (for finalists), pitch live to our judges.

Student Support

• Comprehensive toolbox: Workshops, online resources, alumni insights and more.
• Blackboard course: All Whitman students are already enrolled, you'll find exclusive content and discussion forums.
• Alumni network: Connect with mentors and gain valuable industry perspectives.

Registration is now closed. Please join us on April 18 for the Dean's Challenge Showcase!