How to Create Websites for University-wide Initiatives
Important issues deserve more than a static page. We examine content-rich web experiences that fully tell the story of diversity, inclusion and more.
As hubs of creativity, social justice and progressive politics, universities are often tasked with driving conversations that extend far beyond academic offerings. Discover how state schools and private institutions alike create websites to tackle some of today’s biggest topics.
The University of Arizona: Content that Enhances Reputation
Recognizing that the future is one of diversity and inclusivity, UArizona launched a university-wide website to advance these values across campus — and beyond. The content-rich site celebrates the ways that diversity helps the institution advance academic excellence. Given the site’s success, UArizona has since applied a similar cross-institution website to various initiatives across campus, including their Mexico and environmental initiatives.
In addition to event highlights, programs of study and faculty research, both sites will each include a robust content hub that focuses on the deeper, richer stories behind the work. Rather than announcing a partnership or program, content in these online journals will explore the larger issues that drive these accomplishments, from science and engineering to arts and education.
Stanford University: Highlighting a Commitment to Progress
Providing a solid mix of student profiles, thought leadership and campus events, Stanford’s Diversity Works website uses content to amplify diverse stories and voices, as well as to acknowledge a collective history that has been built on the efforts of populations that were marginalized and denied access to higher education.
Content includes a variety of student profiles that provide a glimpse into the lives of students from all walks of life, while research stories highlight the work underway at Stanford that impacts underserved and underrepresented communities.
Colorado State University: Site Design that Intrigues
CSU’s State of Sustainability website provides an immersive, compelling home for all campus-wide environmental initiatives, from academics and research to operations and outreach. The site’s image-centric design and organization is sharp and easy to navigate, allowing users to scroll through and take in a few quick facts, while also encouraging a deeper engagement with the site. High-quality videos provide a look at both the research underway, and the stunning natural landscape that Coloradoans are lucky to live and work in. Student-centric content highlights the myriad ways that students can get involved, whether that’s through a major program or clubs and events. Ultimately, the site serves to convert with a strong call-to-action and prompts to enroll, support, work or learn more.
Harvard University: Leading with Content
Harvard’s Graduate School of Design website is a lesson in leading with content. The site is formatted as a rich digital journal that explores topics like immigration, social equity, housing and ecology through the lens of design. Content is a mix of long-form features, exhibition updates and profiles, all accompanied by compelling imagery that entice a reader to dive deeper. All of the standard university elements (apply, give, academics) are only found in the collapsible menu bar, further adding to the overall experience of the site as a content hub first, university site second.