Who: Dr. Ronald Rochon, University of Southern Indiana president; Dr. Bill Thomas, internationally-renowned aging expert and gerontologist; Dr. Ann White, dean of the USI College of Nursing and Health Professions; Addison Pollock, associate state director of advocacy and outreach at AARP Indiana.
What: Ribbon cutting and open house for the USI MAGIC Project Minka house
When: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 24
Where: The Minka house is located between the Education Center and the Wright Administration Building Forum Wing southwest entrance near Red Mango. A map of campus that features both the Education Center and Red Mango can be found at USI.edu/map.
MAGIC Project: The University of Southern Indiana and the USI Foundation are partnering with Dr. Bill Thomas, with support from AARP and AARP Indiana, on a year-long pilot project (Jan 2018 – Dec 2018) aimed at creating a cultural transformation related to aging in community. The MAGIC Project will create a Multi-Ability, multi-Generational, Inclusive Community (MAGIC) housing model for both students and older adults.
Minka: Minka is an innovative modular, prefabricated home intended to create an affordable housing platform that can be adapted to meet the needs of people of different ages and abilities. The Minka on USI’s campus will be used as a demonstration house and simulation lab. Students and faculty from different disciplines will be invited to be involved in designing technology that promotes independence to be used in the Minka. Students will then be able to tour the home as a model in smart home technology and sustainable design. Also, once the interior is complete, students and faculty may also use the Minka for simulation activities and interprofessional education opportunities.
Media Parking: Limited media parking will be reserved in Lot I next to the Physical Plant. Please contact Ben Luttrull, media relations specialist, to ensure that a parking spot is set aside for your outlet. A map of campus that highlights Lot I can be found at USI.edu/map
