TAG University: Redefining Professional Growth and Learning
Background
In 2022, The Aspen Group unveiled TAG University (TAG U), a groundbreaking initiative designed to provide team members across the country with opportunities for professional and personal growth. TAG U offers innovative, world-class learning experiences, combining cutting-edge technology with forward-thinking educational strategies. Through its robust programming, TAG U empowers TAG employees to unlock their potential and thrive at every stage of their careers.
Bob Fontana, TAG Chairman and CEO, described the initiative as an investment in people:
"TAG U is an investment in the independent professionals we support, their businesses, and their growth. We are committed to providing the best learning and development experience in the industry, creating a community that thrives on learning, collaboration, and innovation."
The Challenge
TAG University aimed to set a new standard in professional development by creating a physical and digital space that aligned with the initiative’s forward-thinking mission. However, designing an engaging environment that inspired learning, fostered collaboration, and encouraged participation was a significant challenge. The project required transforming two full floors of Aspen Dental Headquarters into a vibrant, functional space that reflected the values and vision of TAG U.
The design needed to serve multiple purposes:
Support the diverse offerings of the Four Schools of Excellence: Clinical, Leadership, Business and Operations, and Service and Support.
Inspire connection and community through interactive and photogenic activations.
Create a modern, visually stimulating environment that reflected the innovative ethos of TAG U.
The Solution
I was tasked with leading the environmental design for TAG University, transforming the headquarters into a dynamic, colorful space that celebrated growth, learning, and innovation. My role included:
Activating the Space: Designing photographable moments and interactive installations to engage attendees and encourage sharing on social platforms.
Colorful Upgrades: Revitalizing two entire floors with bold, vibrant palettes and thoughtful layouts that energized the space while supporting the four schools’ unique focus areas.
Functional Design: Balancing aesthetics with utility to ensure the environment facilitated learning and collaboration for TAG professionals at every career stage.
Brand Integration: Weaving the TAG U identity into every corner of the design, from signage and wayfinding to classroom interiors and community spaces.
Key Features of the Space
Harvard-Inspired Classroom Studio: A sophisticated, high-tech setting for in-person and hybrid courses.
Interactive Community Areas: Spaces designed to foster connections among peers, coaches, and mentors.
On-Brand Visual Identity: Themed décor and signage that reflected TAG U’s core values and energized learners.
Photographable Activations: Instagram-worthy installations that added an element of fun and buzz to the learning experience.
The Impact
TAG University launched as a transformative learning destination, setting the stage for continued innovation and professional development. The thoughtfully designed space inspired attendees, fostered a sense of community, and underscored TAG U’s mission to support employees' growth at every career stage.
Recognition
The project’s success in balancing innovation with design functionality solidified TAG University’s reputation as a leader in industry education. The thoughtfully designed space inspired attendees, fostered a sense of community, and underscored TAG U’s mission to support employees' growth at every career stage.
This achievement was further recognized when TAG University’s environmental design won the Environmental Design Award from Graphic Design USA (GDUSA) 2023, cementing its place as a standout example of how thoughtful, strategic design can elevate both form and function in corporate learning environments.
TAG University now stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design, creating an environment that motivates, educates, and connects.