Master Plan

An active lifestyle and a nutritious diet are key strategies to influence health and wellbeing. The HKS study Point of Design Decisions summarizes these concerns and design strategies to address obesity on college campuses. Safety and personal connections are also critical.

A Texas Woman’s diverse student population should be celebrated when designing spaces and activities that promote social connectedness. Spaces and programs that acknowledge all student needs, such as childcare, lactation and student support through existing resources like the library, counseling, student health and the Pioneer Center, should exist. These spaces should be designed and have a focus on the 14 patterns of biophilia, which is the design of the built environment that addresses issues of health and wellbeing.

Texas Woman’s faculty and staff advocate a “learn by doing” experiential learning environment where they provide students opportunities to engage in campus, workplace and community activities. These help shape their sense of purpose, their appreciation for the importance of building quality personal and professional relationships and their ability to address life’s challenges.

Bringing in the community, and engaging Denton with the campus, are also important in exploring opportunities to integrate on-campus social, recreational, athletic spaces, community gardens and a potential senior living community.

The 29,000 acre Lake Lewisville provides flood control and water conservation to Denton as part of the Trinity River watershed. A small existing creek creates a design opportunity for stream restoration.

Also, as part of the Grand Prairie ecoregion, natural oaks that have grown for hundreds of years on campus will remain and be preserved. Natural plantings will also restore animal habitats, prevent erosion, provide shade and reduce the urban heat island effect.