We’re a small but mighty team driven by one goal: to reimagine higher education for a rapidly changing world. Every day, we work to equip students with the skills and confidence to navigate complex challenges, engage in meaningful dialogue, embrace failure as growth, and lead change.
Shift Retail Lab at VCU is proudly powered by the VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation. Our space was brought to life through a collaboration with Mark Hourigan and the Hourigan Group, with branding crafted by talented students from VCU Brandcenter.
SHIFT Retail Lab named winner
The next generation of entrepreneurs won’t be stuck in the classroom.
Virginia Commonwealth University reimagines entrepreneurship training with its Shift Retail Lab, a winner of 2023’s Innovation By Design Awards for Fast Company.
Meet the Team
Alicia Edgerton
Administrative Coordinator
VCU da Vinci Center
Pronouns: she, her, hers
Cael Parker
Postdoctoral Fellow in Innovation and Human-Centered Design
VCU da Vinci Center
Contact Us
Have questions, ideas, or want to get involved?
Reach out anytime, we’d love to hear from you. Whether it’s about programs, events, or how to connect with our team, we’re ready to assist.
Find Us
Come see where ideas come to life!
Shift Retail Lab is located on Broad Street across from the Stuart C. Siegel Center.
Meet the Founders
Garret Westlake, Ph.D.
Vice Provost for Innovation & Strategic Design
Co-Founder, SHIFT Retail Lab
Pronouns: he, him, his
Lloyd Young
Interim Executive Director, VCU da Vinci Center
Co-Founder, SHIFT Retail Lab
Pronouns: she, her, hers
