Luther College and Destination Medical Center Will Host a Design Thinking Workshop Thursday

Students, business representatives and community members are invited to participate in a free design thinking workshop, hosted by Luther College and Destination Medical Center on Thursday, October 3rd at 7 pm in the Mott/Borlaug Room at the Dahl Centennial Union on the Luther College campus.

Participants in this workshop will learn the art of design thinking to address problems and create solutions in just 90 minutes. Participants will learn how to take their idea from a raw concept to a workable solution in a fast-paced, hands-on workshop. "Design thinking and innovation approaches are of high value to colleges, businesses/startups, and communities," said Jodi Lynn Enos-Berlage, a professor and internship coordinator in the Luther College Biology Department.

Luther was one of five schools selected and invited to participate in a Destination Medical Center-sponsored Design Thinking Workshop. The content of this workshop is developed by Mayo Clinic design experts and consists of a fast-paced, 90 minutes hands-on session intended to teach participants the process and mindset needed for creative problem-solving using a human-centered approach.

The workshop's organizers also hope that it will serve to stimulate interest in--and offer preparation for-- the formation of collaborative team(s) to participate in the spring DMC Assistive Technology Challenge, a pitch competition to facilitate greater independence for individuals with disabilities and the daily challenges they face. The Assistive Tech Challenge will be held April 4, 2020 in Rochester, Minnesota.

"These opportunities could align and support Decorah's emerging reputation as a place known for health, wellness and inclusivity, as well as increase awareness of our unique place, offerings, and attributes to the fast-growing Rochester community," said Enos-Berlage.

Lindsey Rowe-Heyvold, Luther Professor of English, is the local coordinator of the event Thursday evening. To register for Luther/DMC's free Design Thinking Workshop, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/design-thinking-workshop-luther-college-destination-medical-center-tickets-72542355137 or email Lindsey Row-Heyveld at lrh@luther.edu for more information.