TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Stillman College was recently awarded a $75,000 Innovation Lounge Grant from the Home Depot Retool Your School program for the creation of an innovation lounge on the top floor of the Hay College Center.
The grant was awarded for a pitch to utilize the top floor of Hay College Center as a setting to foster innovation and collaboration. The space amplifies its utility, offering students seamless access to resources that complement their academic pursuits with practical career development opportunities.
“The determination for an innovation lounge stemmed from recognizing the imperative of nurturing creativity, collaboration, and technological proficiency among students, which is vital for their future career prospects,” said Jean Wilson, director of Alumni Affairs. “Through a thorough assessment of student needs and industry demands, it became evident that a dedicated space for innovation would significantly augment their practical skills and readiness for the rapidly evolving job market.”
Wilson leads Stillman’s Retool Your School efforts each year and worked with Career Services to secure the funding.
The grant provides funds for paint, flooring, lighting and drywall to support repair to renovate the space, as well as packages for furniture and technology. The innovation lounge would be used for STEM-related activities, workshops, and collaborative projects. It will include innovative furniture, 3D printers and smart boards to provide a space for academic learning, collaboration, and professional development. Students will be invited to use the space to exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects.
“The implementation of the innovation lounge is poised to revolutionize the educational experience for students at Stillman College by offering a multifaceted approach to learning and skill development,” said Andrew Robertson, dean of Stillman Online and Career Services. “The innovation lounge will cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, inspiring students to think creatively, take risks, and pursue innovative solutions to complex challenges. Its integration of Career Services within the lounge will bridge the gap between academic learning and professional development, equipping students with the necessary skills, networks, and resources to succeed in their chosen career paths.”
Home Depot awarded a total of 12 Innovation Lounge grants in 2025.
