GeoCommons celebrates its one-year anniversary

GeoCommons is a new collaborative hub for geospatial research, education, and public engagement at the University of Minnesota. This innovative space officially launched in fall 2023 with a very successful open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony at the UMN Spatial Forum on November 15, 2023. A key factor in GeoCommons’ success can be attributed to the dynamic duo of Eric Shook and Bryan Runck who serve as the director and associate director of the collaborative hub. 

Making a "Spatial Maker Space"

In research, Drs. Shook and Runck have received an award from the Research Infrastructure Investment Program of the Research and Innovation Office to establish a "spatial maker space" as part of GeoCommons. This facility is set to become a cornerstone for innovative research in spatial sciences, offering MGIS and other students across the U hands-on experiences in a cutting-edge environment. Dr. Emily Fairfax’s research was featured in an episode of PBS’ This American Land in a segment called "The Benefit of Beavers," part of which was filmed in GeoCommons and showcased some innovative visualization technology. 

In education, several courses were taught in GeoCommons including Geospatial+X, Data Visualization, Digital Mapping, and Intermediate and Advanced Spatial Data Science. These courses are bridging academic learning with practical application, enhancing our educational offerings, and equipping both undergraduate and graduate students with invaluable skills. GeoCommons also hosted the Borchert Map Library Teacher Fellowship which featured outstanding presentations by five teachers who explored the resources of the Map Library to create engaging learning opportunities for their students.

Youth Group Visits

GeoCommons’ commitment to public engagement was exemplified by hosting the first BSA Cub Scout group and taking GeoCommons on the go to Ella Baker Global Studies & Humanities Magnet School, marking the entry into community outreach and engagement. These initiatives not only enrich the lab’s public presence but also open up unique opportunities for MGIS students to engage with and educate younger generations.

These developments at GeoCommons are creating exciting opportunities across research, education, and public engagement, directly benefiting our MGIS student community as well as others across campus.