Grainger College of Engineering Launches Modern Interactive Hall of Fame Kiosks with Help from Engineering IT Shared Services
Two new interactive “Hall of Fame” kiosks have been installed in The Grainger College of Engineering (GCOE), offering a modern and engaging way to celebrate the college’s most distinguished alumni. The project originated from a request by Dean Rashid Bashir to the GCOE Advancement Office to explore options for a digital display honoring Grainger College of Engineering Hall of Fame inductees—the highest honor awarded by the college. Paula Besson, Executive Director for Advancement, took on the task.
Initially, Paula researched outside vendors, but then discovered the college had the internal expertise to design and implement the experience. Collaborating closely with Engineering IT’s Audio-Visual team, Application Development team, and the College Marketing & Communications (MarCom) team, the group developed a fully customized interactive solution. Michael Rauch, Associate Creative Director with MarCom, contributed significantly to the visual design or the base and wraps around the display screen.
Engineering IT's Josh Potts, Software Engineer, worked with Michael to transform the concept from webpage content into an intuitive and polished digital experience through a sign template and streamlined data flow.
Luther Young, AV Coordinator in Engineering IT, led the technical and logistical efforts to gather hardware quotes, test equipment, move and install the interactive kiosks. The project found that going with the expertise within the Grainger College cut costs dramatically and saved on on-going licensing requirements as well. Regular maintenance and software updates can be handled in-house as well, increasing the savings from using an out-side vendor.
The interactive displays — one located on the first floor of Grainger Library and another built into the first floor of Engineering Hall — extend and enhance the existing Hall of Fame banners in the library. Visitors can now explore inductees through an interactive interface that connects faces and stories. Photos and biographies from the Hall of Fame website are seamlessly pushed to the displays, ensuring the content stays fresh and accurate through regular updates.
The kiosk units themselves are substantial—each weighing nearly 400 pounds. One unit made its debut at the Hall of Fame ceremony at the Alice Campbell Alumni Center, where it drew significant interest and engagement from attendees.
Paula praised the collaboration, noting, “It was so easy to work with the individuals involved, and the entire process was incredibly smooth.” She added that it was encouraging to discover such strong technical and creative capacity within the college itself.
These new kiosks offer a modern, dynamic way to honor Grainger Engineering’s most celebrated alumni—helping current students, visitors, and community members connect more deeply with the innovators and leaders who have shaped the college’s legacy.
The Grainger College of Engineering Hall of Fame Kiosk at Alice Campbell Hall for Hall of Fame event. This kiosk now lives in the Grainger Library.