After its inception at Mary Lou Fulton College in 2017 and years of dedicated work to embed it as a core value, Principled Innovation (PI) reached a pivotal moment in 2023. This was the year PI was launched as a design aspiration across Arizona State University, marking the beginning of an exciting new phase: sharing the PI framework more broadly for university-wide adoption.
Introducing the PI College Catalysts
One of the key strategies to bring PI into the culture of ASU’s colleges was the creation of the PI College Catalysts. This group, made up of faculty and staff representatives from various colleges, gathers monthly in a Community of Practice. These meetings serve as a collaborative space where members exchange best practices, seek feedback, and reflect together on how to integrate PI into their unique college contexts and cultures.
The catalysts represent two cohorts, with a third on the horizon. Each member is deeply committed to embedding Principled Innovation in their respective areas, fostering a shared sense of purpose and momentum.
The Power of Collaboration and Trust
I’ve had the privilege of facilitating these gatherings, designing learning experiences, and providing resources to support their work. Over the past year, I’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation within the group. Genuine relationships and trust have blossomed, laying the foundation for powerful collaboration—a cornerstone of practicing Principled Innovation.
This academic year, we transitioned from a facilitator-led model to a hosting model. In this new structure, each college takes a turn leading a session, sharing their work, seeking feedback, presenting challenges, or collaboratively designing creative solutions. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with each session offering rich learning opportunities and deeper connections.
A Glimpse Into Our Gatherings
October 2024 – Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
Engineering bravely kicked off our hosting model. They showcased their creative marketing strategy, which includes posters and stickers displayed across their buildings to encourage reflection and engagement. Naturally, the group was thrilled to receive stickers as part of the session—because who doesn’t love a good sticker?
December 2024 – Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions
The Watts team presented a dilemma about a challenging event they ultimately decided to cancel after careful deliberation. The session was an opportunity for the group to offer diverse perspectives, brainstorm ideas, and provide feedback on how to approach similar situations in the future.
January 2025 – W. P. Carey School of Business
Catalysts from W. P. Carey shared their creative design challenge: reimagining a space to physically embody Principled Innovation for students, staff, and faculty. The session included a walk-and-talk to explore the space and collaboratively generate ideas.
Looking Ahead
The PI College Catalysts continue to be a bright spot in my work, deepening relationships and advancing our shared mission. Launching Principled Innovation across ASU has been enlightening, occasionally challenging, and endlessly rewarding. The passion and dedication of the catalysts inspire me daily, and I’m excited to see how their efforts shape the broader ASU community.
Together, we’re building a culture of reflection, creativity, and thoughtful decision-making—one step at a time.