Founded in 2021 through the generosity of BU Trustee Emeritus Richard C. Shipley, the Shipley Center supports all faculty working to create innovations in teaching and learning – and across courses and programs that drive effective student engagement. The Shipley Center works in close collaboration with faculty to develop engaging learning experiences, informed by data and for the purpose of promoting innovation, equity and inclusion in higher education. We steward the effective use and deployment of the endowment fund, providing financial and in-kind support through the use of innovation education technology.

Project Exploration & Funding

The Shipley Center nurtures innovative ideas and approaches to bolster academic innovation at scale. The Institute for Excellence in Teaching & Learning is pleased to announce the 2025–2026 Shipley Academic Innovation Fund to support faculty-led initiatives that advance transformative teaching, interdisciplinary collaboration, student success, and innovation in curriculum and pedagogy.

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Guiding Principles

Creative Courage

We are inspired by creative courage and committed to high standards of quality, capacity building, flexibility, continuous learning, and transparent processes.

Student on Computer

Compelling Curiosity

All of our collaborations begin with questions and curiosity. Together, we generate ideas, prototype solutions, deliver value, and share outcomes.

Two people in a lab, wearing white shirts, interact with robotic arms and gloves at a desk. A laptop is open, suggesting a tech-focused discussion.

Collaborative Culture

We endeavor to cultivate a culture that invites dialogue and collaboration, expanding our frame of reference to create value and impact for as many as possible.

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