Closing One Chapter, Opening the Next: Innovation Seminar Finale

This week, the Spring 2025 cohort of INOV 350: Innovation Seminar is showcasing a powerful range of student-led group projects that address everything from protecting the environment, promoting student wellness, improving public safety and strengthening local communities and more.

Students from the INOV 350

The course, part of the Innovation Studies program at PLU, is designed as a capstone experience for students ready to put theory into action. As one of the final milestones for many Innovation Studies minors, INOV 350 challenges students to apply the knowledge and skills they’ve developed—across design thinking, ethical decision-making, and teamwork—toward solving a problem that matters to them.

“Innovation students are built different,” said Shelly Cano Kurtz, professor of Innovation Management. “These changemakers are ready to change the world!”

For graduating seniors, the Seminar was more than a final course—it was a culminating experience that brought together everything they’ve learned and shaped who they’ve become. I spoke with two Innovation Studies seniors who are graduating this spring.

“Innovation Studies has pushed me to turn ideas into action. The Seminar course was unique from others, as it gave us the space to build something we care about and connect with real people, using real ideas in meaningful ways.” — Alanna Angeles

“Innovation Studies has pushed me to think creatively, solve real-world problems, and gain a deeper understanding of how to turn ideas into impact. The Seminar course gave me the chance to collaborate with my classmates and build something meaningful together through shared ideas and perspectives.” — Andrea Cruz Gonzalez

Alanna Angeles (left) and Andrea Cruz Gonzalez (right)

I witnessed many students ready to lead change in confidence, wherever they go next. I’m excited to see where their ideas take them and look forward to what comes next for these remarkable students.