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K-State Today

August 26, 2021

Jeff Sheldon named associate director of Sunderland Foundation Innovation Lab

Submitted by Cailin Riley

Jeff Sheldon has been named the associate director of the Sunderland Foundation Innovation Lab.

Located on the first and second floors of Hale Library, this state-of-the-art facility offers all K-Staters the opportunity to use the latest innovative technologies. The Innovation Lab is a partnership between the Libraries and the Division of Information Technology.

As associate director, Sheldon will work with students, instructors and researchers to develop and deliver services through the Innovation Lab's equipment and programs. Sheldon said his goals as associate director are to build relationships with organizations across campus, as well as create a welcoming environment that celebrates innovative conversations, builds life skills and gives students a place of belonging.

"We've received a tremendous amount of enthusiasm from faculty and students about how the Innovation Lab can assist with teaching and research," Sheldon said. "I'm excited to work with so many talented people at K-State, each one offering unique skills and perspectives that serve as the brick and mortar for this evolving initiative."

Sheldon previously worked for K-State Libraries as an IT administrator. Before coming to K-State, Sheldon served as a computer analyst for the mathematics department at Louisiana State University.

He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Louisiana State University and has an extensive history of system administration and leadership.

"We are thrilled to have an experienced and driven individual such as Jeff at the helm of this facility," said Joe Mocnik, dean of K-State Libraries. "We want the Innovation Lab to foster creativity and excitement for new technologies, and an engaging staff is crucial to developing that atmosphere."

"From early on in the project, the Libraries and IT have been working in partnership to make the Innovation Lab an exciting place for students, staff and faculty to imagine the possibilities of creative transformation," said Gary Pratt, chief information officer. "Jeff has been an outstanding collaborator from the beginning and I am excited to bring this facility online and see what amazing things come forth!"

The Innovation Lab is open to all students and staff on the first and second floors of Hale Library. The Innovation Lab currently offers a media studio, Liquid Galaxy display and checkout for equipment such as cameras and tripods. In the near future, the Innovation Lab will offer low and high-tech makerspaces, 3D printers, a production studio, a sound studio and more.