The Interdisciplinary Innovation Institute (i3) drives programming, teaching, research, and innovation through cross-disciplinary collaboration and creative inquiry.
The Interdisciplinary Innovation Institute (i3) at Catawba College exists to cultivate bold thinking, purposeful collaboration, and transformative learning at the intersection of disciplines. Rooted in the College’s commitment to liberal arts education and personal formation, the Institute serves as a hub where faculty, students, and staff come together to address complex challenges, generate new knowledge, and translate ideas into meaningful action. Housed within the Interdisciplinary Innovation Institute is the Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership, which advances the College’s dedication to high-impact educational practices.
The i3 and CETLL are expected to officially launch in August 2026.
Interdisciplinary Programming
i3 combines expertise from Catawba College’s Signature Centers to create innovative cross-disciplinary courses and learning experiences, leveraging specializations to enhance faculty co-teaching opportunities and research projects addressing complex real-world challenges.
i3 assists in deploying cutting-edge academic initiatives including Dreamscape Learn VR technology, Robot Agriculture interdisciplinary projects, and Solar Racing Team STEAM engagement programs.
Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning, & Leadership
The Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership (CETLL) advances the College’s dedication to high-impact educational practices. The Center supports faculty and academic leaders through professional development, pedagogical innovation, and leadership formation grounded in evidence-based practice and reflective teaching.
The new Core Curriculum and Pathways framework, Catawba's Signature Centers, and five Schools provide foundational academic infrastructure and specialized expertise for institutional initiatives. All three signature centers — the Center for the Environment, the Lilly Center, and the NC Center for Politics & Public Service — have bolstered interdisciplinary programming, teaching & research and encouraged innovation across campus. The Interdisciplinary Innovation Institute (i3) will increase support for faculty in continuing and expanding upon the good work already initiated by these centers.
A center for sustainability, a powerhouse of the arts, and a leader in the sciences, business, and more. With 70+ academic programs — there’s nowhere Catawba can’t take you.
