Design Research Symposium 2022

Design Research Symposium 2022: Second Story Collective: the Story So Far

Second Story Collective is a collaborative venture of Drexel’s Writers Room. This collective of artists, activists, architects, and West Philadelphia residents is united by a vision: shared living space and shared stories can create a foundation for meaningful co-habitation.  The Design Research Symposium on Friday, April 15 will be an interdisciplinary event exploring concepts of home, co-design, and the power of story to create connections across difference. 


Schedule of Events

12:30 PM doors open + welcome

1:00 PM (concurrent sessions)

3:00 PM Memento: participatory co-design workshop with Kia Weatherspoon and Sequoyah Hunter-Cuyjet

5:00 PM Open House: reception + story-sharing


"We design to change lives." – Kia Weatherspoon 

Join us for a dynamic talk and workshop experience with Kia Weatherspoon and Sequoyah Hunter-Cuyjet of Determined by Design as they share how their work is inspired by history, fashion, and nature and how their advocacy for Design Equity continues to shift the affordable housing narrative, making interior design a standard for all. 

Their short talk will be followed by a hands-on workshop in which you can create a memento box honoring the history of your home and family. Attendees should bring their own objects to work with during the session.

The talk will be streamed online and open to all. In person attendance for the walking tour and workshops is limited. Participants will receive a curated package of art and print materials. 

Free registration is required. Register here.


Supported by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, The Barra Foundation, AmeriCorps, and Westphal College of Media Arts & Design.

DIANA NICHOLAS