Hosted by the Maker Hub, the 7th Annual Maker Takeover Event will take place on Wednesday, April 29, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Moseley Student Center.

This free, drop-in event is open to students, staff and faculty. With more than 40 student-made projects on display, it’s an opportunity to explore the creativity of the Elon Maker Hub community and make your own projects take home.

Activities taking place include:

• Ice cream made with liquid nitrogen by Elon Dining
• Create your own sun prints using a cyanotype process
• Building a custom picture frame
• Celebrating 10 years of the Maker Hub with a photo gallery
• A brand-new escape room: Escape from Wonderland
• Retro and vintage games to play
• Custom printed t-shirts (while supplies last!)
• And more!

Maker Hub staff members, Addie Whitaker and Gage DeMarco have been able to work closely as they each prepared for this year’s Maker Takeover.

DeMarco created a wooden cabinet dartboard that can open and close. He hopes to encourage others to see that they can also create something through the Maker Hub, regardless of their prior experience.

“I am most excited to display the woodworking projects that I have been working on for some time. In particular, I wanted to challenge myself with something bigger than anything I’d made before,” said DeMarco ‘28.

“My role is to plan activities for Maker Takeover attendees with three of my fellow Team Leads. I have been working specifically on getting a few activities ready for our guests, such as cyanotypes, t-shirt making, and button making, “ said Whitaker ‘28.

Cyanotype printing uses the sun’s UV light to create a one-of-a-kind deep blue print on photographic paper or fabric. Activities like this are available to give attendees a chance to create a personalized craft with assistance close by.

Maker Takeover will also feature an area for current students to display projects they’ve been working on through Elon Kickbox, a Maker Hub program supporting students in their projects through funding, resources, and mentorship.

The Kickbox projects made by students will be on display at Maker Takeover, and students will be available to discuss their projects and how they went about making them. This year, students made projects ranging from a pop-up projector for their truck bed, to an assistive mobility device to help with injury recovery called NexG8, to a set of motorized wings that can open and close with a remote. They span from passion projects to research and provide a platform to showcase creativity and problem-solving in self-driven projects.

“Maker Takeover is about bringing the Maker Hub out into the open so students, whether they already use the space or have never stepped inside, can experience what’s possible,” said DeMarco.

Maker Takeover highlights the creative and innovative students in Elon’s Maker Hub community and aims to engage the campus community with the Maker Hub. Whether you’re coming for nitrogen ice cream, custom t-shirts, or to support students and their projects, there’s plenty to discover!

Visit the Maker Hub website for more information or follow us on Instagram at .

Sponsored by the Alamance County Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Alamance brings together professionals from business, government and nonprofit sectors across Alamance County. Participants are selected through an application process, and their employers sponsor their involvement, allowing one full-day absence each month for immersive learning experiences across the county.

Throughout the year, the cohort travels to sites around Alamance County to explore topics including education, foodways, history, law enforcement and public services and health care. Elon’s program offered participants insight into the university’s approach to experiential learning and civic engagement.

During their campus visit, participants engaged with faculty, staff and students in the Kernodle Center for Civic Life, the Center for Design Thinking and the Maker Hub. Workshops were led by Danielle Lake, director of design thinking and Dan Reis, assistant director of creative learning technologies, with assistance from student representatives. Leadership Alamance alumni Bob Frigo, director of the Kernodle Center for Civic Life and assistant dean of campus life, Sara Beth Hardy, assistant director of community partnerships and Kyle Anderson, associate director of the Kernodle Center for Civic Life also presented civic engagement initiatives at Elon.

Pamela Runestad, assistant professor of anthropology and a member of the Leadership Alamance Class of 2025, helped plan this year’s programming.

“51±ŹÁÏÍű works with community partners outside the institution in a number of ways every day,” Runestad said. “The Leadership Alamance Class of 2026 will get a snapshot of what that is like, and hopefully consider ways we can work together in the future.”

Following their time on campus, participants spent the afternoon learning more about the Alamance-Burlington School System and other educational sites throughout the community.

Each year, members of the Elon community participate in Leadership Alamance, strengthening partnerships and fostering collaboration across sectors. Through the program, community leaders build connections and develop shared strategies aimed at making Alamance County a stronger, safer and more equitable place.

Elon is ranked No. 9 on the list for its focus on “innovation through modern campus technology and experiential learning. Students access smart classrooms, digital media studios and technology-enhanced learning spaces across disciplines. Elon emphasizes practical application of technology through research, creative projects and global experiences.”

Spaces across Elon’s campus allow students to learn about technology, and through technology as well, including the Maker Hub, where any member of the Elon community can freely access and use 3D printers, sewing machines, laser engravers, saws and drills, a CNC router, an embroidery machine and much more. Elon’s Founders Hall and Innovation Hall also include a multitude of learning lab opportunities, including Engineering Design, Engineering Prototype, Virtual Reality and Mechatronics.

At Elon, technological learning is not restricted to STEM subjects. In 2025, the Department of Music opened an immersive audio room in Arts West, providing students and faculty with a high-quality environment for both teaching and experimentation — particularly in Dolby Atmos, the industry-standard format that reshapes everything from cinematic sound to commercial music releases. The Department of Performing Arts’ fall 2024 performance of “Legally Blonde” also featured some robotic co-stars, thanks to the collaboration with students in the Department of Engineering.

A new undergraduate major, digital content management (DCM), in the School of Communications prepares students for careers in digital storytelling, content strategy and audience engagement across emerging platforms. The school also launched a new “Drones and Society” course in fall 2025, which blends hands-on projects and flight simulations with discussions about ethics, privacy and the broader impact of drone use.

As artificial intelligence continues to be at the forefront of technology conversations, Elon named Mustafa Akben as its first director of artificial intelligence integration. Akben now leads the integration of artificial intelligence across Elon’s academic and administrative departments, building on six core principles the university helped establish to guide higher education institutions with a rapidly evolving and groundbreaking technology.

Students use these opportunities for learning in their research as well. Rony Dahdal ’26, a Lumen Scholar and Goldwater Scholar, is researching how to use LiDAR, a remote-sensing technology that uses laser beams to measure distances and movements, to detect vital health signs. Another Lumen Scholar and Goldwater Scholar, Jacob Karty ’26, is doing research around agricultural robotics.

“(Elon’s) commitment to innovation helps students develop strong digital communication and problem-solving skills as they prepare for careers shaped by rapid technology change,” writes University Magazine.

The jump from high school to college is a mix of nerves, excitement, and possibilities, and so Elon 1010 focuses on creating a space for community that supports students in navigating, together, all the transitions they experience during their first semester.

This fall, the honors section of the course experimented with an activity brainstormed during a class session at the Maker Hub. The goal was to expand the enjoyment students were having to something more, something that encouraged them to be creative throughout the semester, connect with classmates in ways that felt comfortable for them, explore what amazing resources that campus has to offer, and most importantly, show appreciation to those who have experienced their first semester at college together.

Each student makes a small, personalized gift for someone they randomly select in the class using whatever they can find at the Maker Hub and with their own creative powers. It encouraged students to think about who their classmates are and what they might appreciate. Throughout the semester, the course built in activities that focused on students building connections and getting to know each other. They completed the ropes course at Danieley, hung outside and talked about the importance of education, played Beyond the Books (a board game all about the first year) and centered on moments of getting to know each other.

Partnering with the Maker Hub made the whole thing work. By tying it into the curriculum, students were introduced to 3D printers, laser cutters, design software, embroidering, sewing and crafting supplies they could experiment with. They learned new skills while making something tangible for someone else and were encouraged to get to know their classmates in order to make something thoughtful for them. It showed how a class can reach beyond the syllabus through meaningful partnerships with campus resources and facilitate relationship-rich moments.

On the final day of class, the energy in the room was contagious. Students showed up excited to share their wrapped gifts with their peers. After decorating holiday cookies and enjoying in a bespoke hot chocolate bar, the students sat in a circle to share their creations. There was laughter, surprise and genuine pride in what they had made. Students told stories about how their gift was made with an appreciation of their peer, from special moments outside the class, inside jokes, to favourite sports teams, the gifts were a representation of the friendships formed over the semester.

More than anything, the Elf Exchange helped students feel connected, gave them a reason to be creative and thoughtful, and introduced them to resources and people that made campus feel less overwhelming and more like home.

Here are the Phoenix Five for this week:

Juried Student Art Exhibition

Monday, Nov. 17 – Thursday, Dec. 4, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Gallery 406, Arts West

Explore creative work from Elon students at this year’s Juried Student Art Exhibition, featuring ceramics, photography, painting, printmaking and intermedia. The exhibit opens with a reception on Monday, Nov. 17 at 5 p.m. and remains on display through Dec. 4. Stop by to support student artists and experience their work up close. Visit the for more information.

Global Connections, Right Here On Campus

Two events this week will explore international relations and the United States’ role in the world.

Speaking of International Relations: Humanitarian & NGO Work

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 4-5 p.m., Numen Lumen Sacred Space

Meet Andrew Rento, a former worker with the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, for a conversation about humanitarian work, refugee support and careers in NGOs. Learn what international nonprofit work looks like in practice and ask questions about the field. Open to all students interested in global service or policy.

Fall Dialogue Series: Isolationism & America’s Global Role

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 6 p.m., Moseley 217

There has long been debate about America’s role in the global community and whether, if any, the U.S. has a responsibility as a country to get involved in global conflicts and events. This conversation has grown this year, with ongoing wars in Ukraine, Syria, Yemen, Sudan and Gaza. Join this open conversation using the Civil Dialogue model to hear diverse perspectives and share your viewpoints on how nations choose when, and whether, to intervene globally. .

Pop-Up Swap Shop

Refresh your wardrobe sustainably by swapping clothes you no longer wear for “new-to-you” pieces. The Office of Sustainability is hosting a quick pop-up swap shop event, a great way to reduce waste, save money, and find unique items. Bring clean clothing in good condition and trade for something new. The upcoming pop-up swag shops are on the following dates and times:

• Tuesday, Nov. 18, 4:30 p.m., Moseley Table
• Thursday, Nov. 20, 1 p.m., Moseley Table
• Friday, Nov. 21, 2 p.m., Moseley Table

Visit for more information.

Maker Hub Kickbox Program: Applications Open

Applications due Monday, Dec. 15

Have an idea you want to bring to life? The Maker Hub’s Kickbox Program provides mentorship, a structured process, and $300 in project funding to help you build something new this spring.

Students have created everything from assistive devices and board games to 3D-printed guitars, clothing, and even robot cats—any major or class year can apply. Submit your idea (solo or with a team) by Dec. 15 at 11:59 p.m. Learn more on the or email makerhub@elon.edu for questions.

There will be no Phoenix Five email next Sunday, Nov. 23 – enjoy the Thanksgiving Break!

On a mid-September afternoon in a first-floor classroom in Long Building, students huddled over tables to finish their drone builds, adjusting miniature motors, securing blades and testing their wiring. Occasionally, a tiny screw or component went missing, prompting a frantic search.

The assembly had begun a week earlier in The Maker Hub, but the assignment – and all its small pieces – proved too much for a single class period.

Among the students was Ali Steele ’27, a computer science major from rural Heathsville, Virginia, who – thanks to a high school drone program – already has her FAA Part 107 certification. She even spent part of her summer surveying farmland via drone. Most classmates, however, were far greener, with little to no drone experience but plenty of curiosity.

This range of expertise is exactly what Associate Teaching Professor of Communication Design Randy Piland envisioned when he created “Drones and Society: Balancing Innovation and Accountability,” a new COR Capstone course offered for the first time this fall. The class explores the fast-growing world of unmanned aerial systems from multiple angles – history, technology, ethics, and hands-on flight.

“The need for this course comes from the way drones are now woven into nearly every part of life,” Piland said. “They are delivering goods and medical supplies, aiding search and rescue, supporting first responders, mapping, and producing photography and videography for media, real estate, and advertising – along with military applications. The growth has been staggering, and it’s clear that our students need to critically examine drones not just as technology, but as a force that shapes society.”

For a closer look at the class, .

The class roster – all seniors – reflects the wide reach of drone technology, with majors including strategic communications, business analytics, sport management, computer science, nursing, elementary education and others.

While Steele arrived with five years of drone experience, she saw Piland’s class as a way to expand her perspective. “I knew this course would offer a viewpoint that I have not previously studied, which is the more social and economic impact,” she said. “I might know a bit about the physical structure of the drones, but not so much about the impact they’ve had on society.”

Piland brings his own deep background. He earned his FAA Part 107 certification eight years ago and has kept up with the recurrent exams every two years since. He also completed the AUVSI Trusted Operator Program (TOP) Level One Certification two years ago and organizes Elon Drone Day, which attracts more than 200 drone enthusiasts and pilots to campus each fall.

In the first week, students completed the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) certification, which all recreational pilots are required to pass. Then the hands-on work began. Students built small drones from assembly kits – a task that challenged even those with prior experience.

Borland found the assembly demanding but rewarding. “It was a little more difficult than I originally thought, but it was a great experience getting to figure it out and work with classmates,” he said. “The hardest part were the really tiny screws.”

For Piland, the class exercise is essential. “Building a drone helps the students understand how drones fly and what makes them work,” he said. “Knowing the parts and mechanics translates from small toy drones to commercial-grade systems. It’s hands-on learning that makes the theory click.”

The opening weeks have already sparked new insights. Borland noted that most people typically don’t consider the numerous drone regulations and safety measures, but those rules are critical given the technology’s promise. He pointed to class discussions about medicine delivery as one example of drones’ potential community benefits.

The semester will bring additional opportunities. Piland has ordered flight simulators that will allow students to practice on their computers before piloting more advanced drones. Guest speakers – including pilots working in delivery, first response and other commercial applications – are scheduled, and students can take part in Elon Drone Day.

Throughout the semester, practical skills are paired with critical discussions. Piland said he wants students to walk away with both a solid foundation and a critical lens.

“First, the students will get comfortable with the rules of the road, or in this case, the rules of the air: FAA regulations, safety protocols, and why those matter if you want to fly responsibly,” Piland said. “Beyond that, we’ll dive into the tougher questions – like what happens when drones push up against issues of privacy, safety, or even warfare. I want them to be able to step back and say, ‘Just because we can fly here, should we?’

“By the time the students leave, they’ll be able to do more than pilot a drone – they’ll know how to connect that flight to bigger questions about society.”

Maker Takeover is the Maker Hub’s largest annual celebration that brings students, staff, and faculty together to showcase their creative projects. The Maker Hub provides Elon students and faculty free access to 3D printers, sewing and embroidery machines, laser engravers and other creative tools to help bring their projects to life.

Lydia Credle ’27 grew up with hypermobility in her hands and required custom joint support rings, which were often expensive. She wanted to find a way to make the rings custom and effective for people suffering from arthritis and hypermobility, but also cheaper. With this idea for affordable healthcare, Credle applied for Elon Kickbox, a Maker Hub program that gives students a box full of resources, a sponsor to support their idea and a $300 gift card to help the idea become a reality.

“In the Burlington community, it is hard for a lot of people to have adequate health care, especially custom rings (which) are typically only available to people who have ready access to occupational therapy and $200 to $300 to spare,” Credle said.

The material used for Credle’s experimental rings was moldable plastic that she heated up in a mini water heater. Once flexible, the plastic could then be designed to fit someone’s finger to lessen the strain on their fingers. In addition, Credle had pigments that she could mix into the plastic to form the ring in a person’s desired color. Through the support of her Kickbox sponsor, Nim Batchelor, faculty emeritus and the Maker Hub’s first-ever maker mentor, Cradle learned the importance of prototyping and not giving up after the first try.

“Anyone can do this. You just need the plastic, have some hot water ready and make your own,” Credle said.

Maker Hub Takeover did not just bring engineering and science students together, but also Elon entrepreneurs, showcasing their unique creations. Shriya Baru ’25, founder of KOLIS, an Indian American fusion brand that sells a variety of custom candles made with natural fragrances from small businesses based in India to Elon sweatshirts decorated with Indian inspired bright colors.
“I wanted to introduce my Indian culture on campus and break the stereotype that Indian fashion is overly traditional for Western culture,” Baru said

When Baru launched her business, she did not have access to an embroidery or sewing machine, so she turned to the Maker Hub for resources and support. She remembers people staying overtime to help her complete her orders and find new inspiration.

“I’ve been selling at the Make Hub Takeover for the past three years, and it’s been one of the biggest pop-ups of the year,” Baru said. “I am grateful to the Maker Hub.”

Elon staff and faculty invited their families to enjoy the projects focusing on science, service, experimentation and creativity. Finn Wilkinson ’27 is a consultant at the Maker Hub and was the emcee of the takeover event.

“It makes me nervous but also excited because I can show my enthusiasm outwardly and point out things, like ‘look at what my cool friends are doing,’” said Wilkinson.

While balancing the responsibilities of being the public face of the event, Wilkinson was also showing off their project, Miss Scarlet. As a drag artist, Wilkinson took the opportunity to design and make the pattern for their character’s outfit because many goddess skirts do not come in their size due to their height.

Wilkinson advises students who may be nervous about starting a project or visiting the Maker Hub to “take the leap.”

Time to Verify Student Health Insurance for Fall 2025

All full-time undergraduate, graduate and law students enrolling for Fall 2025 must complete the . Students received an email this week with details and instructions on how to verify coverage or enroll in the university-sponsored plan. Deadline for compliance is June 1, 2025. For questions, please contact healthinsurance@elon.edu.

SPDC Industry/Organization Interest Survey

The Student Professional Development Center (SPDC) wants to hear from students! The Industry/Organization Interest Survey helps shape employer outreach for internships, grad school and job opportunities. It takes just two minutes to complete, and students who participate by May 2 will be entered to win prizes like Bluetooth speakers, Keurigs, and earbuds. !

CLEAR CARE-nival (Denim Day)

Wednesday, April 30, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Young Commons

Mark your calendars for the CLEAR CARE-nival, hosted by the Gender & LGBTQIA Center (GLC). The event will consist of an afternoon of community building, learning, fun, food and free denim! All are invited to wear denim on April 30 in honor of Denim Day – an international day of action to end sexual harassment and assault, support survivors and challenge norms that enable violence. Read the for more information.

Maker Takeover 2025

Wednesday, April 30, 4:30–6:30 p.m., Moseley Center

Join the Maker Hub for Elon’s biggest celebration of creativity and hands-on making. Whether you love making, crafting, or just checking out cool projects, there’s something for everyone! Explore over 40 student-made projects—quilting, clothing, 3D printing, woodworking, electronics, and more. Visit the for more information.

Three Events to Check Out this Weekend

Limelight Records 2025 Limey Awards Show

Friday, May 2, 7 p.m., College Street Taphouse

Limelight Records presents the annual student music awards show. Check them out on Instagram at .

Late Night Elon Presents: Limitless The Last Hurrah

Friday, May 2, 9 p.m., IrazĂș

Come join Limitless for their miniseries performance and see new artists take the stage! This performance will serve as the end-of-year kick-off for this exceptionally talented student music group. Stop by for good music and good coffee – on the house! Visit for more information.

Coolin on the Commons: Heroes vs. Villains Edition

Saturday, May 3, 5–9 p.m., Phi Beta Kappa Commons

Experience the excitement of Elon’s Step Show Competition sponsored by BSU, NPHC, SUB and SGA. Stop by to enjoy free food trucks, a live DJ, inflatables, and show-stopping performances. Don’t miss the chance to donate canned goods and connect with NPHC members ahead of the event – stop by the Moseley Table Monday, April 28, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Check out for more details!

Elon’s maker community is where curiosity becomes creation, and the Maker Takeover brings that spirit front and center.

Hosted by the Maker Hub, the 6th Annual Maker Takeover will take place on Wednesday, April 30, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Moseley Student Center. This free, drop-in event is open to the entire campus community. With more than 40 student-made projects on display, it’s a chance to explore, create, and engage with Elon’s vibrant maker community.

From quilting, woodworking, and 3D printing to student-designed games and immersive experiences, the Maker Takeover is equal parts interactive gallery and hands-on festival.

Attendees can:

• Play student-designed Connect 4 and Operation-style games.
• Sample liquid nitrogen ice cream from Elon Dining.
• Test their wit in the “Emergency Lockdown” escape room.
• Craft string art signs, custom t-shirts, keepsake buttons and stickers and other DIY giveaways.
• Watch live demos like chainmail making and screen-printing.

“I’m excited for Maker Takeover every year,” said Chloe Berkowitz-Pereyra ’26. “There are always new games, activities, and little personalized goodies to take home—but my favorite is the ice cream! My first year, it was mango ice cream; last year, they made Cheerwine. I can’t wait to see what unique flavor they have for us this year.”

The event will also feature the 2025 Kickbox cohort. Kickbox is a Maker Hub program that awards students funding, tools, and mentorship to turn passion projects into prototypes.

Some of this year’s creations include:

• Custom joint support rings, designed to ease chronic joint pain.
• A self-landing model rocket, for safer and more affordable engineering exploration.
• A wheelchair umbrella mount for hands-free weather protection.
• A handcrafted subwoofer engineered for audio precision.
• And a custom nightstand inspired by Where the Wild Things Are.

These projects highlight how Elon students are using design, engineering, art, and curiosity to solve problems, express themselves, and turn bold ideas into tangible results. Explore all of the 2025 Kickbox projects on the Maker Hub’s website.

“Maker Takeover is where creativity meets community. It’s not just about what our students made; it’s about what inspired them to make it, and their process of making it real.”

-Dan Reis, senior instructional technologist in Teaching and Learning Technologies, who leads the Maker Hubs.

Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to attend, bring a friend or colleague, and support the makers behind these innovative and meaningful projects. Some instructors even integrate Maker Takeover into class experiences—as extra credit, reflection prompts, or design inspiration.

Follow or visit the Maker Hub website for updates and a full event overview.

Apply for the 10th Annual Elon Kickbox!

Got a big idea? Elon’s Maker Hub Kickbox program is here to help you bring it to life! Apply for the 10th Annual Elon Kickbox for the chance to join a creative journey this spring and receive $300 in funding, guidance, and a clear process to make your project a reality. Students can apply solo or as a team. Submissions are due Sunday, Dec. 15 by 11:59 p.m. If you have questions, check out the Kickbox Student FAQs or email makerhub@elon.edu.

“Leading with Gratitude”

Monday, Nov. 18, Noon-3 p.m., Moseley Center First Floor Student Center

Are there people who have made a difference in your journey at Elon? Someone who has supported, encouraged, or inspired you along the way? Join the Center for Leadership and take a moment to let them know just how much they mean to you at the “Leading with Gratitude” event. Thank you cards, hot drinks and snacks will be provided. Learn more about the event online.

Elon Dining Friendsgiving

Tuesday, Nov. 19, 5-8:30 p.m., McEwen Dining Hall

Join us for a special Friendsgiving Celebration at McEwen on November 19! Join Elon Dining to enjoy Thanksgiving dishes and building community through a special meal with friends.

Fall Performing Arts Events this Week

Elon Bands Concert

Tuesday, Nov. 19, 7:30-9 p.m., Center for the Arts, McCrary Theatre

The Elon Concert Band and Elon Wind Ensemble will perform a concert featuring percussion instructor Isaac Pyatt on marimba. This is sure to be a fun-filled evening of music. Sponsored by the Department of Music.

Elon Music Ambassadors Fall Concert

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 7:30-9 p.m., Center for the Arts, McCrary Theatre

The Elon Music Ambassadors will showcase its fall touring concert. This eclectic ensemble consists of a select group of talented student instrumentalists and vocalists. Please join us for an exciting evening of music featuring various genres, from jazz to pop. Sponsored by the Department of Music.

Wishing everyone a restful, safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving break!