Open Coffee: The Power of Innovation at JMU

Open Coffee: The Power of Innovation at JMU

Friday, January 23, 2026 | 10 AM – 11 AM | Hartman Hall Rm 1040

What is innovation?
At James Madison University, innovation means transforming ideas into impact. It’s about combining creativity, curiosity, and collaboration to solve real-world problems and make meaningful change. Across campus, innovation takes shape in research labs, classrooms, student ventures, and creative projects—where big ideas meet bold action.

Join us for a dynamic Open Coffee conversation with four of JMU’s leading voices in innovation and impact. Together, they’ll explore how innovation is being cultivated across campus—and how students, faculty, and staff can get involved. The discussion will highlight how innovation extends beyond entrepreneurship, connects to research and experiential learning, and drives progress through partnerships like JMU X-Labs and JMU REDI.

Featured Speakers

• Diane Durance – Executive Director, Gilliam Center for Entrepreneurship (GCFE)
• Leigh Evans – Director of Research to Impact, JMU REDI
• Dr. Patrice Ludwig (‘96, ‘01M) – Interim Assistant Vice President for Research & Innovation; Campus Coordinator, 4-VA and STAIR
• Howard S. Carrier – Associate Professor in JMU Libraries, Copyright & Intellectual Property Librarian
• Conversation Highlights

• How innovation thrives across disciplines and programs at JMU
• Ways students can connect with research, internships, and creative opportunities
• What’s new in upcoming JMU X-Labs courses
• How JMU REDI builds partnerships that translate research into real-world solutions
• Opportunities for faculty and staff to collaborate in fostering innovation

Come for the coffee—stay for the conversation that’s shaping JMU’s future.

*Free coffee and Krispy Kreme Doughnut Dots*

To RSVP visit:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1607729465109?aff=oddtdtcreator

For questions or more information, please contact: [email protected]

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Host or Publisher Gilliam Center for Entrepreneurship