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/dˈfam(ə)lē/
Noun: A tight-knit group of students passionate about making a positive impact using the Human-Centered Design Process
Spring 2025 applications are now closed. Fill out the interest form for updates next semester.
Interest Form
Design for America (DFA) is a nationwide network of student-led studios focused on using Human-Centered Design (HCD) to address real-world social challenges. At UIUC, DFA is a diverse, interdisciplinary registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and RSO. We welcome students from all majors to collaborate on community-impact projects. By forming teams and following the HCD process, students design creative, empathetic solutions aimed at solving complex problems within the Urbana-Champaign community and beyond. DFA connects students and local organizations to co-create lasting, positive change.
Human-Centered Design (HCD) as a process that “first focuses on the needs of real people, then builds and tests ideas with users, and ultimately disseminates implemented solutions to individuals and communities.” A similar definition can be found with one of our campus partners, the Siebel Center for Design. They define HCD as “an interdisciplinary, problem solving approach that identifies the unmet needs of a population in order to collaboratively and iteratively develop solutions.”
Members attend weekly all studio meetings, project team meetings and go to social and developmental events. All studios are every Sunday from 1-2:30pm where all DFA members engage in activities related to the HCD process to better understand it. Members are also encouraged to go to social and developmental events. These events typically help improve studio culture and aid in professional development.
