October 28-30, 2025, President Charles E. Patterson of Shippensburg University, Vice President of Enrollment Management & Marketing Dr. Megan Luft, and student representatives attended the 2025 REP4 Gathering in Chicago, representing the university’s commitment to ‘student-led innovation’ in higher education.
REP4, short for Rapid Education Prototyping for Change, Learners, Community and Equity, is a national initiative that empowers learners to co-design solutions that can be scaled across higher education. Rep4 is supported by a coalition of universities and partners focused on student agency, equity and innovation.
The event brought together students from across the nation to present prototypes on real challenges within higher education. Shippensburg University students Emma Shank, Michael Luzi, and Mahogany Woods presented a project in collaboration with high school and university students to develop the AI-powered research tool for academic libraries, named Strawberry. The tool was inspired by the “strawberry generation”, aka Gen-Z, and their relationship with technology. Modeled after tools like Google’s AI summary feature, the prototype aims to simplify the research process for students using academic databases.
Their project earned the “Scalable Solutions Team Award,” recognizing the need for the platform across institutions. The team presented their work alongside university partners such as Fort Valley State University, Grand Valley State University and Boise State University.
“I couldn’t be prouder of our Rep4 Allies, who have worked tirelessly to make an impact. From supporting our Summit to collaborating with partners across the country on prototype presentations over the past few months, often in the evenings after classes, work, and student teaching, their dedication has been inspiring.” –Dr. Megan Luft, Vice President for Enrollment Management & Marketing and Shippensburg University Rep4 Lead
“Shippensburg University’s participation in REP4 reflects our deep belief that students are not just the beneficiaries of higher education—they are its co-creators. The innovation, collaboration and purpose our students demonstrated in Chicago show what happens when we truly listen to student voices and empower them to lead.” – Dr. Charles Patterson, President of Shippensburg University
The 2025 Gathering followed Ship’s Summer Summit this past July, which is a part of the university’s ongoing commitment to REP4’s mission to create more equitable educational systems through recognizing student perspectives. Previous Shippensburg projects have focused on topics including holistic admissions, student belonging, and hands-on learning tools.
Through alliances with organizations like REP4, Shippensburg University remains dedicated to leading innovative and student-led solutions that create an equitable space for all learners.
