At last year’s inaugural One Idea, One Slide Summit at the University of Delaware, Daniel Watson, deputy athletic director of sport performance and campus recreation, proposed to offer a minor and/or certificate in sports performance analytics, expanding on an internship of the same name. The idea took root, and today, it is progressing through the New Program Incubator to become a reality. 

“This Summit embodies the interdepartmental forward-thinking view of our strategic plan,” Watson said. “If you have an idea that involves other areas throughout the University, then this is the place for you.” 

The Office of the Provost is now planning the second annual Summit at noon on Friday, May 17, in Mitchell Hall, with all faculty and staff invited to attend, whether they want to present or listen. For those who want to present an idea, each will have two minutes and one slide to share an idea that advances academic excellence in research, education and impact. The deadline for submitting proposals is May 13. 

Ideas are encouraged from across campus, with the intent of identifying problems and opportunities, while simultaneously leveraging a community approach to potential solutions.

At last year’s Summit, there were more than 70 presenters with 280 faculty and staff contributing to their ideas. It became the perfect opportunity for the audience and presenters to network, identify partnerships and work together. Audience members will be able to join projects that they hear about that are of interest and for which they have expertise to bring to bear. A networking reception will follow the presentations.

“The Summit captures the incredible innovation and creativity within our community, and it provides a vehicle to form collaborations and connections that might not happen otherwise,” said Provost Laura Carlson. “Everyone is invited to share their ideas and leverage our collective capabilities to help bring these creative ideas to life. Or just come and listen and join a project. I am looking forward to seeing you all on May 17.”